Back to school: Building kids up for success

As families prepare for the return to school at the of this month, parents are being reminded that self-esteem and confidence play a key role in a child’s academic, social, and emotional success, and are protective factors against anxiety and depression.

Triple P International Country Director Carol Markie-Dadds says with two in five Australian families experiencing school refusal, and many more facing cost-of-living pressures, the start of a new school year is adding an extra layer of parental stress and worry.

“Children and young people may have mixed emotions in the lead-up to school, from excitement to dread – this is normal. They may be worried about fitting in or coping with workloads, or they might have friendship concerns, are worried about starting a new year level or going to a new school,” Carol says.

“A practical way parents and carers can help their children positively transition into a new school year and help them face any challenges that come their way is to focus on boosting their self-esteem, confidence, and coping skills.

“Research shows children and teens who have healthy self-esteem are likely to experience a range of lifelong benefits. This includes being more eager to learn, having more success at school, being more cooperative, having stronger social skills, and most importantly, improved mental and physical health.

“Children aren’t born with a sense of confidence and not all children develop it at the same rate or age, or with the same level of success.

“The great news is that parents and carers can help children by modelling and teaching these skills and giving their child opportunities to practise them at home, school and in the community.”

Parents can help boost their children’s self-esteem and confidence by praising their efforts, being a positive role model, guiding them to solve their own problems, allowing them to complete tasks themselves, telling them it’s OK to make mistakes and encouraging them.

“Children with low self-esteem are at risk of more serious emotional concerns such as anxiety or depression,” Carols says.

“If low self-esteem or a lack of confidence is impacting your child’s day-to-day life, it may be time to chat with your GP, seek professional health advice, or check out the evidence-based parenting support program Fear-Less Triple P Online.”