What are the Ways to Promote Self-Improvement in Children?
Posted by Strategic Communications, JGI Group on 17 July 2023

Numerous studies have shown that self-improvement in children promotes educational and emotional well-being. Several pedagogies have claimed that children who are invested in self-improvement at a young age will likely experience many advantages in life.

By engaging in self-improvement practices such as setting goals, developing study habits, and seeking continuous learning, they experience higher academic outcomes. Self-improvement allows children to navigate through challenges, manage stress, and build resilience in the future.

However, the tricky part lies in promoting self-improvement in children. As young minds are often exposed to diverse things, preaching self-improvement as a parent can be critical at times. Therefore, we have come up with some hand-picked strategies that can help raise confident individuals who are committed to becoming the best version of themselves.

Appreciate their Achievements

A little appreciation goes a long way. We must learn to praise the children for whatever little they accomplish. Words of appreciation can have a positive impact on the children, and they will be motivated to deliver better next time. It's important to be cautious and thoughtful when we appreciate children for their achievements. For instance, if they do well on a test and score good marks, we should appreciate their hard work and effort that led to their success instead of emphasising only the grades achieved. By showing appreciation for their efforts, we create a positive response to their accomplishments. This positive reinforcement encourages them to continue working hard in the future and strive for even better results next time.

Practice Self-Acceptance

Human beings are naturally very conscious of themselves. It could be the way they look, the colour of their skin, or their socio-economic status. It’s important to teach our children that they can become a better version of themselves by loving who they are. For example, they don’t need to look like someone to become a better person. Self-acceptance should motivate them to do well in their lives and should not be focused on superficiality.

Supporting their Vision

Every child has unique dreams and aspirations that bring them joy and fulfilment. As parents, it is crucial to support and nurture their self-improvement journey. Whether they aspire to be a cricketer, pilot, doctor, or artist, we can help them take steps towards their goals. For example, if a child expresses interest in becoming a singer, we can foster their passion by encouraging them to learn musical notes, practice with an instrument, and start with simple songs. Setting achievable milestones and regularly reviewing their progress will instil a sense of accomplishment and motivation. This will promote self-improvement in children and help them develop their skills, chase their dreams, and become the best versions of themselves.

Lead by Example

We all know that education starts at home. Children are quick to learn and adapt to the habits of their parents and family members. As they observe how we behave and talk to people around us, they pick up the same habit and approach. Therefore, it is very important to demonstrate positive habits, cultivate a growth mind-set, set personal goals, and engage in self-improvement activities. For example, if we practice healthy eating habits and lifestyles, it is natural that our children will also adapt and incorporate them into their daily lives. Therefore, practising before we preach is important, as our actions and attitude towards self-improvement will inspire and motivate our children.

Way Forward

In conclusion, promoting self-improvement in children leads to significant educational and emotional benefits. By engaging in self-improvement practices, children develop essential skills for navigating challenges and building resilience. By appreciating their achievements, we foster a sense of motivation and encourage continued efforts. Furthermore, teaching self-acceptance helps children develop a healthy self-image and promotes personal growth. By setting realistic goals and becoming good role models, we can create an environment that encourages and supports children's self-improvement journey.