Parents Promoting Self-Esteem

When you have average to above-average intelligence, but you're struggling with a skill that comes to your peers without much effort, you start to question your ability.  That's exactly what happens to a child with a learning disability.  And as they continue to struggle, their self-esteem begins to slide.  It's one of the biggest concerns parents bring to us at Bridgeway.  But don't loose hope, those self-esteem issues will turn around as children begin to learn in a way that works for them.  In the meantime, there are things we can do as parents to help.  This article from the website, Smart Kids with LDs, offers some advice.

Rhonda

Parents’ Tips for Promoting Self-Esteem

Parents of children with LD and ADHD offer the following tips for building self-esteem and encouraging competence:

Praise…
Give praise for a specific job well done—completing a chore, finishing a homework assignment, participating in a Boy Scout fundraiser.

…But not too much
Kids are aware if you’re making too much fuss, or if what you say doesn’t relate to something worth noting. Hollow praise diminishes the real thing.

Encourage decision-making
Giving a child the power to choose offers a taste of what is involved in making responsible decisions, including living with the consequences. When young, it may be choosing an activity or what to wear; later on, it may involve what courses to take or summer program to attend. Remember that you get to define the options, and few decisions are irreversible.

The process of making her own decision offers
your child a much-needed sense of having some
control over her life.

Offer a chance to shine
Whether it’s skating or drawing, a consuming interest in frogs or singing in the school play, make sure your child has opportunities to show off his strengths. Involvement is the key. As long as he’s interacting with a group that shares his interests, it’s okay to be the team manager or the guy that brings down the curtain at the end of the show.

Be the first
Kids gain status with their peers from being the first to see a new movie, go to a special event, show up with the latest fashion accessory or get a hot new gadget. Encourage the willingness to lead rather than follow.