Although self-esteem is forming at an early age, it is not measurable before the age of five or six years old because up until this time the two functions of self-esteem-- competence and worthiness--operate independently of each other (Mruk,1995).

Between the ages of five and eight years old, self-esteem becomes increasingly defined. Children begin to make judgments about their self-worth and competence in five areas: physical appearance, social acceptance, scholastic ability, athletic and artistic skills and behavior (Harter, 1983 cited in Joseph, 1994). These five areas make up the child’s global view of his/her self. Self-esteem emerges at this point in childhood becau

A child’s sense of self-worth is more likely to deepen when adults respond to the child’s interests and efforts with appreciation rather than just praise (Loomans and Loomans, 1994). For example, if the child shows interest in something the parent is doing, the parent might include the child in the activity. Or, if the child shows interest in an animal in the garden, you might help the child find more information about it and discuss the information with him/her. By doing so, the parent responds positively to the child’s interest by treating it seriously. Flattery and praise, on the contrary, distract children from the topics they are interested in. Children may develop a habit of showing interest in a topic just to receive flattery. Young children are more likely to benefit from tasks and activities that offer a real challenge than from those that are merely frivolous or fun (Loomans and Loomans, 1994). For example, the parent can involve the child in chores around the house, such as preparing meals or caring for pets. These types of activities stretch the child’s abilities and give him/her a sense of accomplishment.

The parent can help the child develop and maintain a healthy self-esteem by helping him/her cope with defeats, rather than emphasizing constant successes and triumphs. During times of disappointment or crisis, the child's weakened self-esteem can be strengthened when the parent lets the child know that the parent’s love and support remain unchanged.

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