Low Self esteem can manifest it’s self in many ways, particularly in young children. You may notice that a youngster is sad, being negative all the time, not willing to try or practice new skills and generally thinking that their efforts are just not good enough.

These damaging thoughts and feelings can stem from lack of attention, praise and support. Sometimes even a child from the happiest and healthiest family environment can still suffer low self-esteem and confidence - if this sounds like you and your family, don’t feel bad. We can all let these things slip when we are busy parents, most of who all work in some capacity and often have more than one young child to spread love and attention to.

Don’t panic! Boosting kids self-esteem and confidence is easy if you include a regular dose of active games and exercise. Why? Because children learn a great deal through play, imagination and exploring the world around them. When activity is surrounded by fun, excitement and the rewards from feeling good about oneself, it is a an immediate boost for confidence and self-esteem.

Taking part in sports, games and physical exercise is the perfect platform to allow for plenty of praise, encouragement and rewards.

Physical activity is an absolute must if an individual is to reach their greatest potential. When your child is involved in physical activity you will be able to provide support, encouragement and to nurture a positive state of confidence and self-esteem in a young developing mind.

Make exercise fun. think of activities that kids enjoy and that they'll succeed at. If you pick an activity that's too difficult for them to master, they'll feel like failures and won't want to keep doing it. Consider, games like Frisbee, Hopscotch or jump rope. Perhaps a bike ride or a martial arts class. Enrolment in a sports clinic (Auskick Footy or Milo Cricket for example) or even something as simple as a walk through the park or walking the dog would be a great start.

Better yet: Ask your kids what they might like to try.

Activities that encourage use of motor skills are important in developing confidence too. Games that involve balancing (walking across a beam), throwing at a target (bean bag toss) and catching (ball throw and toss) all show a child that with practice, perseverance and a positive attitude they will eventually succeed at a task every time.

Reward trying and positive attitude. It is imperative that you reward and support your child’s efforts before, during and after taking part in the activity. Even if they did not do as well as you had hoped for, you MUST make them feel that you are proud of them and that they tried their best. This way, next time around, they will be eager to get involved once more. They will inevitably be proud in them selves and form the belief that they will not be afraid and start that vital internal dialogue of “I CAN DO IT!”

Rewards, praise and support can come in many forms.

Before a game or activity always use words of praise for them wanting to try something new. For example, “It’s great that you would like to try and play this game, it will be lots of fun”.

During a game or activity aim to give out suggestions and supportive encouragement such as “you are doing so well” and “I really like the way you caught that ball”. Don’t let frustration take over and stay away from criticism of any form like “you need to try harder”, or “do it right or we will go home!”

After you have finished playing it’s a great time to give hugs and say “Well Done, you were great”. Don’t worry about next time, just focus on the current event and making them feel like a success.

Now is a great time to use physical rewards such as stickers, small gifts and even the occasional lolly won’t go astray.

Make it a family event so that the family plays together. Parents (and siblings) should get on board with the new activity program. The more family members who get enthusiastically involved, the better. If parents see exercise and ‘play time’ as a chore, kids will sense that too and won't want to do it. Instead, form Team Family so that the child doesn't feel singled out, self conscious or punished for not being as positive as they could be.

With a healthy bout of regular fun exercise (in the form of games, sport or just general physical activity) and plenty of praise:- the surly, insecure and negative child will turn in a happy, positive and confident little go getter in no time at all.

By Jodie Sparkes