Tips for helping instill confidence and self esteem in children

[JSpen]

I have a fairly shy not very confident 4 year old son and looking for tips to help instill confidence and self esteem in him as he grows up. He's starting school this year and particularly worried about how he will cope. Thanks!

[notagiraffe]

The simplest, best tip I know is allowing them to do things, fail at them, learn from mistakes and finally achieve (e.g. tying shoe laces, swimming, riding a bike etc.) Teaching them how to keep going with something they find hard, and showing them you trust they can handle it and will get there eventually is the best way to build their confidence long term.