How to Boost Your Daughter’s Self-Esteem

We live in a world where teens spend an enormous amount of time comparing themselves to others on social media, in magazines or fashion blogs. 

According to a self-esteem campaign by Dove, 7 out of 10 girls believe they are not good enough or don’t measure up. Whether it’s their academic performance, physical appearance or relationships, many teenagers feel insecure and compare themselves to their peers. 

Here are a few tips to help boost your daughter’s self-esteem:

1. Praise her good qualities. You can use words of affirmation to uplift your daughter and celebrate her achievements. Whether it’s getting a good grade or completing chores in the home, praise her. At times, your daughter may feel pressure to over achieve, so ensure her that it’s not necessary to aim for perfection. 

2. Encourage her to build healthy friendships. Teach your daughter how to cultivate healthy friendships with other girls, by respecting her peers and using strategies of conflict resolution. As a parent, you can model healthy communication within your family. Show your daughter how to avoid bullying behavior and engaging in passive-aggressive dialogues.

3. Accept her. Your daughter has flaws and shortcomings, but display grace with your actions and words. Let your daughter know that you accept her just the way she is and that it’s OK to be vulnerable, despite any limitations and weaknesses.

Your relationship with your daughter plays a major role in her self-esteem. By affirming her good qualities and strengths, and showing that she is valued and accepted, you will help to boost her self-esteem.