Self Esteem
Your Child Is Learning To
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How Can Parents Help
According to Dr. Michelle Borba there are five building blocks of self-esteem: Security, Selfhood, Affiliation, Mission and Competence Security: Children need to feel comfortable and safe. Set responsible limits and rules that are consistently enforced. Selfhood: Help your child identify unique qualities about themselves such as their physical characteristics, capabilities, attitudes, and the roles that they play(big brother, helper, dancer, student, singer, soccer player etc) Affiliation: Children need to feel a sense of belonging. Encourage your child to foster friendships through: inviting children over to play and involving your child in various activities with other children. Discuss different groups your child belongs to such as: school, church, family, girl/boy scouts etc. Mission: Children need to feel a purpose in life. Identify responsibilities that your child has at home. Set realistic goals and positive/negative consequences.Example: Making ones bed=going out to play; Not making ones bed=not going out to play until bed is made. Competence: Focus on your child's strengths. Reinforce your child's interests by praising their abilities and encouraging them to participate in those activities that bring out their strengths such as: Painting, singing, reading etc. |
Resources
Books For Parents Parenting With Love and Logic by Foster Cline, M.D. and Jim Fay Parents Do Make A Difference: How To Raise Kids With Solid Character, Strong Mind, and Caring Hearts by Michelle Borba Ed.D Books For Children I Like Me by Nancy Carlson (k-2) Buzzy The Bumblebee by Denise Brennan-Nelson (k-5) |