| Raising children is one of the toughest and most fulfilling jobs in
the world - and the one for which you may feel the least prepared. Here
are some ways to tackle your child-rearing responsibilities that will help
you feel more fulfilled as a parent, and enjoy your children more, too.
 Nurture your child's
self-esteem.
Children start developing their sense of self
as babies when they see themselves through your eyes. Your tone of voice,
your body language, and your every expression are absorbed by your child.
Your words and actions as parents affect your child's developing self-image more than anything else in his world.
Consequently, praising your child for his accomplishments, however small,
will make him feel proud; letting him do things for himself will make him
feel capable and independent. By contrast, belittling your child or
comparing him unfavorably to another child will make him feel worthless.
Avoid making loaded statements or using words as weapons: "What a
stupid thing to do!" or "You act more like a baby than your little
brother!" Comments like these bruise the inside of a child as much as
blows would the outside. Choose your words carefully and be compassionate.
Let your child know that everyone makes mistakes and that you still love
him, even when you don't love his behavior.
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