| Extreme low self-esteem in children and teenagers | | | | an unnatural need for perfection, or has a hard time |
| can be very dangerous to their ability to say no to bad | | | | dealing with even the smallest amount of criticism; it |
| influences like drugs, alcohol and illicit sex. | | | | may be a sign of trouble. |
| Maintaining a high level of self esteem can help a child | | | | -An inability to try new things. |
| or teen find the courage to stand up against the | | | | It's natural for children and teens to want to try new |
| crowd for what they believe and say no with courage | | | | things and have new experiences. A child who |
| and power. Self-esteem is what helps us all hold our | | | | consistently shies away from anything but the norm, |
| heads up high and believe that we can accomplish | | | | may not have the confidence to believe that they can |
| anything we set out to do. All wonderful traits we | | | | succeed. |
| want to instill in our kids. | | | | -Constant belittling. |
| Unfortunately for far too many teens, sudden changes | | | | A child with a good sense of self esteem is can easily |
| in their bodies and emotions can leave them scared, | | | | interact with their peers and accept life's challenges |
| confused and frightened. Many lose their ability to feel | | | | without making it a big deal, while children with low self |
| good about themselves and begin to make bad | | | | esteem will constantly belittle themselves even when |
| choices that can adversely affect their futures. | | | | they do succeed. |
| How can you, as a parent, tell the difference between | | | | What if you recognize these signs in your own child? |
| normal teenage angst and serious self-esteem issues? | | | | What can you do to help build your child's self |
| Watch for these important clues: | | | | esteem? Follow these tips: |
| -A sudden change in the way they look and take care | | | | -Watch what you say. |
| of their appearance. | | | | Be gentle with any criticism and watch for |
| A child who has always been meticulous about the | | | | opportunities to offer thoughtful (and truthful) praise. |
| way they dressed and looked, and who suddenly | | | | -Be a positive role model. |
| takes no care in themselves or their clothing may be | | | | Don't be too hard on yourself either. If you expect too |
| adopting an attitude of "I'm always a mess anyway so | | | | much from yourself, your children are apt to follow |
| no one will notice." | | | | your lead and mirror your behavior. |
| -Exhibits an extreme need to be perfect. | | | | -Be affectionate with your child. |
| Children who feel that they must be perfect at | | | | Give your kids lots of hugs and praise. Let them know |
| everything often do so as a way to hide all the things | | | | that they are worthy of your love and attention. |
| they perceive that they can't do correctly. Being | | | | -Make your child feel safe and nurtured. |
| studious is one thing, but if your child suddenly exhibits | | | | Take the time to make him or her feel important. |