Self-esteem improves students' grades

By Freda Nabayunga

Students with low academic achievement were more likely to have lower self-esteem. Interestingly, researchers state that the best way to improve student achievement is to increase self-esteem. Self-esteem refers to the belief an individual has of his or her own worth.

Research has also documented that low self-esteem puts a child at risk of developing depression.

Low self-esteem can be attributed to negative childhood experiences, negative comments about the child from parents or teachers and from failure in important areas of a child’s life, such as failure in the classroom.

According to KidsHealth.com, children with low self-esteem are generally resistant to trying new things and use negative phrases such as “I am dumb,” and “I will never get it” when referring to themselves. They may incorporate this negative self-talk into their sense of self, truly believing they are dumb or worthless.

Such children are at increased risk of alcohol use, drug abuse and other self-destructive behaviour.

Boost your child’s self-esteem

Give specific and genuine praise that you know will be appreciated for efforts rather than just successes, reinforcing the idea that perseverance is more important than talent.

You also need to offer sincere affection regularly to your children.

Provide them with constructive experiences that will improve their self-esteem such as voluntary work, which may help them feel good about themselves because they are helping others.

You should also improve your own self-esteem because children primarily learn by imitating adults.

Resist referring to them by bad names.

Give children constructive criticism by first focusing on their strengths and then pointing out their weaknesses. Students will not improve if they do not have specific feedback, both positive and negative.

Promote involvement in healthy activities by learning what activities interest the child and finding ways for them to develop these interests.

Allow your child to make meaningful decisions in areas where they can, by assigning them leadership roles.

Working on the self-esteem of your children provides them with life skills that improves the way they deal with peer pressure and responsibility, improves their mental health, social relationships, academic performance and later, their professional skills.

The writer works at Catch-A-Dream Foundation

info@catcha.co.ug