if you tell your child they are the best, are you setting them up for disappointment or building self esteem?

Answer 1

hummm, thats something to think about.....very good.
I always tell mine they are the best, i figure kids are most likley to receive more harmful words in there life than helpful.
It feels so good to be called the best at something, even though it may only last a day. Id say building slef esteem.

Answer 2

I suspect that "the best" is setting them up for a fall when they eventually discover that lots of people are better than them. There are other ways to build their self-esteem - telling them they are trying hard/their best, making you proud, I love you's - without telling them they are the best in world at something. Best to treat failures and successes in much the same way I think. My little man has gone overboard on the "its not the winning" angle though!

Answer 3

I'm leaning towards self esteem. However depending on what the child's future holds. Both could occur.

Answer 4

you should tell ur child that you love them, that is the biggest thing a child needs from its carers. you should tell them that you are very proud of them and everything they do and will support them in their life and that you want them to do the best that they can do and you will be there for them through mistakes and when they succeed, remember failing is part of succeeding and parents need to be their for their child throughout he good times and the bad, that is what you should tell your child, givin them love and support wil build them up for a good future and develop their self esteem and confidence. good luck

Answer 5

I would say to tell your child how wonderful and special they are, but not that they are the best. Every child should feel good about themselves, but I hate seeing little kids saying that they are better than others because their parents said they are the best.

Answer 6

Telling ones child that they are the best works great provided they are also told when they aren't the best. It helps to establish some balance.

Answer 7

I tell her she is the best, because she is. She is one strong little girl, with a good sense of humor. She knows mistakes are a part of life and to roll with it.
Editors note:
Those are the main gifts I wanted to give her..
Humor, strength and forgiveness (others and yourself)
With that the rest is easy.

Answer 8

Neither, you're letting them know that *you* think they're the best. You're letting them know that no matter what else happens in the world & in their life, they are important & wonderful *to you*.

Answer 9

you should say "in my eyese you are the best". Thats what I would do;