A child’s emotional development has been shown to influence his behavior, learning and interpersonal relations, now and later in life. In fact, according to Education.com, the early childhood years are especially important when it comes to the development of self-esteem. While healthy self-esteem can enable a child to do well in school, excel in life and establish healthy relationships, low self-esteem in children may lead to depression, learning disabilities and even discipline problems. Although parents usually realize that their child’s self-esteem is important, many parents fail to realize what a huge part they play in their child’s development of this important characteristic. Since the parenting role is so important when it comes to fostering a healthy self image, it is important that parents learn how they can help boost their child’s self image and esteem. Understanding Self Esteem: MentalHelp.net provides information on the definition of self-esteem, defining it as the way a child judges his/her own worth. Children often get their concept of self worth from comparing their abilities to the value and abilities of others in their social circle. This means that a child’s self esteem is greatly influenced by the opinions others have of the child’s value and how others receive and respond to the child’s failures and accomplishments. Positive experiences have a big role to play in building self-esteem. Children build self-esteem as they take on challenges and master them while enjoying positive, loving communication from parents. This is where good parenting comes into the picture. Loving support, and sincere expressions of love, guidance and cheerleading from parents can help children develop an accurate way of seeing themselves, leading to a balanced view of their self worth.