Model good self-esteem.

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Express through your actions and words that you respect yourself. Share what makes you happy.  Boost your own self-esteem if you need to.

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Talk about life and the world in positive terms.

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Even though there is negativity in the world, don’t dwell on it with your child.

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Plan for “down time” for your child.

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Allow time for relaxing and “hanging out” as opposed to over scheduling time.

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Create a workable bedtime routine.

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Allow opportunities for a child to contribute to the family.

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Give your child a job that only he/she does for the family. Even a small job can create a feeling of competence and build confidence.

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Give encouragement not praise.

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This can be tricky.  Encouragement gives a child the internal desire to learn, achieve, explore, and solve problems instead of looking for external praise from others.