Having good self-esteem is important at any age, but it's critical during the turbulent adolescent years. Children with low self-esteem may turn into the playground bully, have a low level of self-control and have a tough time making friends, according to the pediatrician website KeepKidsHealthy.com. An adolescent with high self-esteem is more willing to take on new challenges, feels a sense of trust and feels accepted by others. There are group and solo activities that can help to enhance feelings of self-worth.
Brochure About Me
To help children develop a sense of their own worth and see how others feel about them, the Therapeutic Recreation Directory suggests having a group of adolescents write brochures about themselves. Each child is given a paperclip and a piece of brightly colored paper that's folded in thirds, brochure style. On the front flap, they write their name in markers in any style they like. Inside the folds, have them make a list of items such as their favorite activity, best feature, proudest moment or something they're good at doing. Emphasize that only positive responses are allowed. Once the list is complete, each child paperclips the brochure shut and passes it to the person on the right. Without opening the brochures, children write something they like about the brochure's owner on the back cover. Once everyone has had a chance to write on all the brochures, they're returned to the owners. Give the children a chance to see what was written and have a discussion about the experience.
Ad About Me
Teach adolescents they all have something of value to offer others by having them make an advertisement about themselves. Lead a discussion about how ads work, and then give the youngsters a chance to design an ad persuading someone to be their friends. The Therapeutic Recreation Directory instructs that the ads should depict positive characteristics through pictures, words or a combination of the two by using magazines, markers, pencils, scissors, construction paper or any other available art supplies. If anyone has trouble coming up with ideas, have him think about qualities he looks for in a friend. Once the ads are done, have everyone share their finished products and let the audience confirm the presenter's good qualities.
Shared Time
Sometimes a little one-on-one time with a parent can do wonders in building self-esteem and letting children know their efforts and opinions are valued. Get your children involved around the house to give them a sense of accomplishment and let them know they have skills to contribute to the family. The website selfesteem2go.com suggests getting adolescents involved in remodeling their bedrooms, tending a garden or cooking a meal with you. Let them make their own lunches, help to care for family pets and assist with the grocery shopping. Be sure to offer plenty of praise and encouragement.
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