Developing Self-worth

     Children develop much of their self-worth from their family experiences.  It is important to keep this in mind at all times.  Praised children will develop a more positive outlook on themselves than children who are continually being disciplined.  Praise for accomplishments can lead to better behavior at home,  and at school.  Childhood is a critical time for the development of self-worth. 

    

It is easy to let negative thoughts slip out during a situation in which a child may have been disobedient or unruly, but we must learn to turn those situations into opportunities to help our children grow into confident children who can make good choices that are based on their experiences.  Make those situations become “teachable moments” which are opportunities that educators use frequently.  Take those opportunities to encourage your child to make good choices.  In most behavioral situations the child already recognizes that the behavior was wrong; by using positive reinforcements for behavior instead of negative words or actions, children will learn right from wrong and will also develop their self-worth.  A child who is continually given negative reinforcement will have very little self-worth.

     Some examples of positive reinforcement are:

1.       Point out what the good choice is or would be.  Don’t focus on the wrong.  For example, don’t say “Shame on you!  You did a really bad thing!” Instead say, “What would have been a better choice?” and “How can we make this right?”

2.       Use a reward system (stickers, a chart, tickets, or  special activities).

3.       Praise for good behavior -“Wow, look at what you did!  That’s great!” or “You made a great choice!”

4.       Hugs, hugs, and more hugs! (This is rewarding for everyone!)