Low confidence in children: Expert tips to prevent social withdrawl, fidgeting, boost self-esteem

Low confidence can cause a child to withdraw from social interactions, as they may fear being judged or rejected by peers. (Image: Canva)

Confidence plays a crucial role in a child's emotional and social development. A confident child is more likely to take on challenges, express their opinions, and healthily interact with others. However, some children may begin to show signs of low confidence, which can impact their self-esteem and overall well-being. Recognising these early signs is essential for parents and carers to provide the necessary support and encouragement.

From avoiding challenges and displaying a fear of failure to engaging in negative self-talk or withdrawing from social situations, there are several indicators that a child may be developing low confidence. By identifying these behaviours and offering guidance, parents can help their children build a stronger sense of self-worth and encourage them to develop the resilience needed to overcome obstacles. Dr Rahul Kumar, senior paediatrician at Vinayak Healthcare, talks about key traits that suggest your child may be struggling with self-confidence.

Avoidance of challenges: Children with low confidence often avoid new or challenging tasks because they fear failure or embarrassment. They may shy away from opportunities to learn or grow, preferring to stay in their comfort zones where they feel safe. Encouraging them to try new things, even small tasks, can help build their confidence over time.

Fear of failure: A child who fears making mistakes may develop an aversion to trying anything where success isn't guaranteed. This fear can limit their willingness to take risks or engage in activities that require effort and learning. Help your child embrace mistakes as part of the learning process to reduce this anxiety and build resilience.

Negative self-talk: Frequent negative self-talk, such as “I can’t” or “I’m not good enough,” reflects a deep lack of belief in their abilities. This inner dialogue can further undermine their confidence. Teaching them positive affirmations and helping them recognise their strengths can gradually shift this mindset and improve their self-esteem.

Reluctance to express opinions: If your child hesitates to voice their thoughts or ideas, especially in group settings, it may indicate that they doubt the value of their contributions. This fear of being judged or dismissed can prevent them from participating fully. Encourage open communication at home, validating their thoughts and showing that their opinions matter.

Social withdrawal: Low confidence can cause a child to withdraw from social interactions, as they may fear being judged or rejected by peers. This isolation can further harm their self-esteem. Promoting social activities they enjoy and providing reassurance in group settings can help them feel more comfortable and included over time.

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Overly dependent on others: Children who lack confidence may constantly seek reassurance or approval from others before making decisions. This reliance reflects their self-doubt and can prevent them from becoming independent. Encouraging decision-making in small, manageable situations can gradually help them trust their own judgement and abilities.

Frequent Comparisons: Constant comparisons to others, whether about appearance, achievements, or abilities, can be a sign of low self-worth. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and jealousy. Teaching your child to focus on their own progress and celebrate their unique qualities can help shift their perspective away from unhealthy comparisons.

Physical signs of anxiety: Signs like nail-biting, fidgeting, or avoiding eye contact often reflect nervousness or discomfort, especially in unfamiliar or stressful situations. These behaviours suggest that your child is struggling with self-confidence. Providing a supportive environment where they feel safe expressing themselves can help alleviate these physical manifestations of anxiety.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.