Self Esteem : kids need the Real Thing

Self-esteem needs to be reality based . Parents and teachers should serve a Mirror reflecting back to kids an accurate appraisal of how they are doing. Hollow praise acts like a funny Mirror giving kids a distorted picture. Kids who have always received reflections from a funny mirror end up with a distorted image of themselves. Managing drives and emotions is a prerequisite for success. When a kid can manage his emotions , can discipline himself and delay gratification , he is more likely to complete his homework, assignments learn skills and gets along successfully with other kids.