February 2012-Parent Tip on Self-Esteem
Usually most people think of self-esteem as a child's ability to like him or herself. However, self-esteem has to do with an awareness of one's abilities and challenges. It is also about competency and control. Below is a short quiz of questions to ask yourself about your child/adolescent:
Step 1-Encourage Areas of Competence-support your child/adolescent in their strengths.
Step 2-Promote Physical Fitness
Step 3-Encourage Your Child Constantly-Let them know when you see them using positive behaviors. Catch them being good, not bad.
Step 4-Praise and Discipline Your Child with Carefully Chosen Words
Step 5-Encourage Postitive Self-Talk
Step 6-Encourage Socialization
Step 7-Encourage Self-Monitoring
If you try setting small obtainable goals-perhaps starting with one of the steps, you will help your child/adolescent grow their self-esteem. As always, if you need more information, please feel free to call me at 206-329-3260 X220 or email me at [email protected].
Jennifer Moyer-Taylor
St. Joseph School Counselor
Cohen, Cathi (2000). Raise Your Child's Social IQ-Stepping Stones to People Skills for Kids.
Washington D.C.: Advantage Books.
- Is your child realistic about his or her strengths and limitations?
- Does he or she laugh along when others playfully tease him or her?
- Does he or she accept constructive criticism?
- Does your child accept responsibility for his or her actions?
- Is your child/adolescent able to say "no" to peer pressure?
- Is your child/adolescent able to approach new people with confidence?
Step 1-Encourage Areas of Competence-support your child/adolescent in their strengths.
Step 2-Promote Physical Fitness
Step 3-Encourage Your Child Constantly-Let them know when you see them using positive behaviors. Catch them being good, not bad.
Step 4-Praise and Discipline Your Child with Carefully Chosen Words
Step 5-Encourage Postitive Self-Talk
Step 6-Encourage Socialization
Step 7-Encourage Self-Monitoring
If you try setting small obtainable goals-perhaps starting with one of the steps, you will help your child/adolescent grow their self-esteem. As always, if you need more information, please feel free to call me at 206-329-3260 X220 or email me at [email protected].
Jennifer Moyer-Taylor
St. Joseph School Counselor
Cohen, Cathi (2000). Raise Your Child's Social IQ-Stepping Stones to People Skills for Kids.
Washington D.C.: Advantage Books.