M3
Being constantly criticized by family, friends, and society tends to slowly strip us of our feelings of self-worth. Our low self-esteem strips us of the self-confidence to make even the smallest of decisions. Improving self-esteem increases your confidence and is a first step towards finding happiness and a better life.

Value each child as an individual with unique strengths, needs, interests and skills. Focus on the child's strengths. Emphasize and celebrate his "islands of competence." Reject the child's behaviour, but never reject the child. Use affectionate terms and nicknames when scolding ("Your room is a mess, honey. Now turn off the TV and make your bed."). Remember that sincere interest can be more effective and meaningful than praise. Demonstrate a genuine interest in her activities, hobbies, etc. Establish realistic, achievable goals for your child. Anticipate success. Avoid using sarcasm with kids - children with language problems often misinterpret it. When discussing an issue or a problem, avoid bringing up past difficulties. Never compare one child to another. Help the child develop decision-making and problem-solving skills. Understand that mistakes are an inevitable (and valuable!) part of any learning experience. Use these as an opportunity to teach and assist. Divide large tasks into smaller, manageable ones. This will ensure success, mastery, and retention. Maintain a file of his academic work. Use this to demonstrate his progress and development when he is feeling down.
Encourage him to maintain "collections" (e.g., baseball cards, stamps, rocks, etc.). This allows him to be the resident expert on a topic. If she does not participate in team sports, promote individual sports (e.g., skiing, golf, swimming). This will provide opportunities for success, exercise, and peer interaction. Communicate your confidence in the child and in her future. Permit and encourage the child to follow the normal fads of his