How can I help children who have a negative self-image?
Q: I did not know how to respond to a child who said she didn't like her skin colour or another boy who said he did not like his body.
A: Some of us suffer from low self-esteem in different areas of our lives. Obviously, both these children have a low regard for their body images. In the circle it is sometimes best not to respond to very sensitive issues by extending them into an in-depth discussion. Sometimes a child just needs to mention something to test out how it feels to think it and, even more daringly, say it. A huge spotlight on these fragile contributions can sometimes force children back into shells where they will only offer acceptable, non-contentious comments. A sensitive teacher, like yourself, mentally notes the dilemma or problem facing a child and after the circle meeting takes time to look at the ways these areas of low self-esteem could be boosted through the curriculum, literature and careful planning of future circle sessions (see Part Four).
Some class teachers need to echo the self-esteem work promoted in the circle by deliberately promoting individual self-esteem programmes for all children throughout the year. Parents and teachers report that 'special child of the week' is an excellent approach for boosting self-esteem.
Encouraging tolerance, understanding and celebration of individual differences is an extraordinarily demanding task, but it is most important work for a teacher to undertake as it can affect a child's whole life.
Tell a friend
Enter yours and a friends name to send them this page.
