FIrst 5 LA Five Minutes: Games to Build Confidence
Have five minutes? Help your child learn and grow in just five minutes or less, with First 5 LA’s Five Minute parenting ideas!
Sure, building self-confidence is a long process, but you can help lay the foundation for healthy self-esteem with some fast, fun activities with your baby, toddler and preschooler. Here are some ideas:
1. Play “You Solved that
Problem!”
Beginning in babyhood, notice when your child begins to do something, such as passing an object between his hands, or handing something to you. Say, “You figured out how to pass something–nice job!” Praising your child’s accomplishments and developmental growth help her feel special, and encourages her to learn and try new and different things.
2. Play the Something Good game. Say something good about your child to him, then have him say something good about you. Not only does this help him feel loved, but it shows that his thoughts and feelings are important and can help others feel good, too.
3. Put them to Work (a little). Even toddlers can help put things away or clean up, and taking part builds competence and confidence. Allowing your child to complete an age-appropriate task of her own (even if it is just putting a paper cup in the garbage) lets her know that you trust and value her contribution.
4. Play “Concentration.” With your preschooler, pick any ten pairs from a pack of cards, then place them face down on a table. Take turns overturning two cards to get pairs–chances are good that your child will win, because his or her memory is probably very strong. And win or not, this game is a good way to your child to take on a focused task, take risks, and succeed with every pair she finds.
5. Positive Power. Modeling optimism and positive behavior about yourself and your life can help your child see themselves in a good light. (When you are hard on yourself, your child learns to be pessimistic and hard on himself as well.) So go ahead, let your child know why your feel good about yourself, your family, and your life today!
