Dear parents, besides holistic and balanced education, there are many areas you need to look into in order to develop your young children to become all-rounded achievers. To be frank, in today's fast changing world, young kids are "forced' to face many challenges and social pressures. If they are not being guided in a proper manner, it is hard for them to stay positive in the long run.

Being the smart parents, you are required to put yourselves in your children's shoes. What can be done to empower them?

First thing first, you need to start developing self-esteem in your children. Seriously speaking, you play a very important role in laying a solid foundation for your children's sense of self-worth. You need to assist them to develop the "I can" mentality. In order to foster positive self-esteem, you can try the following:

• You are suggested to encourage your children to be independent from time to time.

• It is good if you are able to look for real activities which can assist young kids to achieve success. Please bear in mind that the activities can be challenging but not too difficult.

• You should offer some useful activities to the children to practise their skills. Make sure that the activities organized by you are fun and the kids can enjoy the processes.

• It is always advisable to provide opportunities for the young kids to express their ideas and feelings.

• You are reminded to praise your children when they have improvement.

Secondly, we need to respect our children. Children need to feel that they are respected for thinking positively about themselves. What can parents do? Parents are advised to allow their young children to make certain decisions while explaining the reasons behind the adults' decisions or rules. Young kids should also be included in conversations and have their views taken seriously. By doing so, you are actually empowering your kids in a consistent manner.

Thirdly, please keep in mind that TRUST is the foundation of all relationships. You are advised to work on trust which you have established with your young children. Let them know that they will have full support from you. You must communicate clearly with your kids to inform them that it is not a big deal if they make mistakes. Mistakes are actually good learning opportunities.

Last but not the least; please bear in mind 3 key points when you are empowering your beloved children, i.e. you guide them but you don't direct them, you coach them but not instruct them, you ask them but not to tell them.