Video: 3. Building confidence

Tip three: building your child's confidence

In times of uncertainty, children may start to doubt themselves and feel insecure in their relationships. Children who feel positive about themselves and confident in their place within the family are less likely to misbehave There are lots of reasons why children misbehave and become disruptive and disobedient.

• These feelings can lead them to be hostile with parents and other family members and become disruptive.
• It is a natural reaction for a parent to try and tackle “fire-with-fire” in such situations and try and clamp down on this sort of misbehaviour before it gets out of control by using sanctions.
• Although there may be a place for this at some point (see film 8) this should not be the first line of response.
• Try and find an opportunity to talk to your child about their concerns and take time to listen carefully to their answers.
• This will give you an opportunity to provide them with reassurance about your feelings for them and help them to feel secure in their position within the family.
• At the same time pay attention to your child’s positive actions and achievements – give them lots of positive feedback and encouragement.
• Don’t be shy to praise your child – this will bolster their self-esteem and strengthen their confidence in their relationship with you.
• Find things to do together as a family that you all enjoy – play together with your children – it’s a great opportunity to show how much you care, to praise and build your child’s confidence.