Ontario Early Childhood Educator Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Offering praise and encouraging independence are crucial strategies for early childhood educators (ECEs) in promoting positive self-esteem among children. When children receive praise for their efforts and achievements, they feel validated and recognized, which fosters a sense of accomplishment. This recognition helps to build their confidence and reinforces the belief that they are capable individuals.

Encouraging independence also plays a significant role in developing self-esteem. When children are given opportunities to make choices, solve problems, and engage in self-directed activities, they learn to trust their abilities, developing a sense of autonomy that is essential for their overall self-worth. This independence allows children to experience success on their own terms, further enhancing their confidence.

In contrast, the other approaches diminish self-esteem. Criticizing efforts can lead to feelings of inadequacy and fear of failure, limiting a child's willingness to try new things. Similarly, limiting achievements or ignoring successes strips away opportunities for children to feel proud of what they have accomplished, which is counterproductive to fostering a healthy sense of self. Thus, offering praise and encouraging independence are effective ways to cultivate positive self-esteem in children.