VANCOUVER -- A confident child can easily find success. They'll do well in school, sports and even get along better with their peers. We have some ways to give them an extra boost.
Like any other child -- eight-year old Ryan Braun has his share of challenges.
Ryan's mother, Deborah, says, "school can be frustrating because Ryan's young for his grade, so we've dealt with some ups and downs."
Ryan's parents have hired a tutor in the past to give him an extra lift. And when it comes to conflicts with other kids -- mom Deborah says it's important for him to feel good about himself and be assertive.
"We've said to Ryan, so how do you feel about yourself. Is that right what that guy is saying? Helping him develop the skills and helping him to deal with the challenges."
Karen Hoffman, Parenting Expert, says, "times are going to get tough and there are going to be problems in their life. Everybody has that. But if you have some self-esteem, then you feel grounded even when times are rough, you can say to yourself, this is going to pass."
Hoffman says parents often ask about self-esteem issues -- and so do kids.
Here are some ways to help your child build their self-esteem. First, focus on the positive.
Also -- zero in on what makes them special. And, accept them, no matter what.
And -- be there to listen to their concerns. A way to do that is through one-on-one time.
Deborah Braun agrees -- and sees the value in that.
"Those little things I guess where we're showing interest, right in his life without it being extreme."
For more information on Karen Hoffmans' workshops -- you can e-mail her at touchofparenting@canada.com.
Thursday April 13, 2006
