Asset of the Month – July

Self Esteem is the Developmental Asset we’re focusing on for the month of July.  It’s so important for everyone to feel valued.  Children, especially, need to like themselves, and feel that they matter.

For younger children:

• Sometimes it’s hard not to compare siblings; but it’s important, from the very beginning, to focus on what’s special about each individual child.
• No one thinks twice about girls being “tomboys”.  Generally, in our culture, girls have more freedom to explore who they are.  It’s important to be sensitive to boys, and to let them have the same freedom to grow into who they will become.
• Looks are important, no one can argue that; but looks aren’t the most important.  Make sure to focus on a child’s personality.  Remember, it’s a work in progress that needs to be shaped and encouraged.
• If your child enjoys an activity—make that the center of attention. It doesn’t matter so much that the picture hanging on the fridge isn’t a masterpiece.  The important thing is that you hung it there!

For older kids:

• Have positive and honest conversations about changes taking place in their bodies.  Celebrate puberty—it’s a major, major change for your child!
• Let your kids know that you’re proud of them, that you enjoy having them around.
• Remember–to a teen, acne can be a major disaster.  It’s just a part of growing up, but don’t overlook their devastation.  Help them deal with it, whether it’s promoting a good face washing regimen, or seeking help from a dermatologist. 
• Let your child know that you think he, or she, is special, and why.  Your child might not know how much you love him or her, or that that love is unconditional, or that you’ll always be there for them, if you don’t tell them.

Based on the Search Institutes 40 Developmental Assets. Find out more at www.search-institute.org.  Written by Diane Rumer for Kenton County Alliance, 859-760-2051.

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