Self Image of a Child

Today, a teacher in the centre commented to me that the kids nowadays, though seemed strong on the outside, but actually they have very negative image of themselves. Thus teachers can help them along the way simply beginning by getting them to greet the teachers as and when they are in the classroom. This is to give them a chance to learn how to respect others, and in return, be respected, which helps in enabling them to get a more positive self image.

Quite a refreshing remark that was. If a child has a negative self image, simply put, it means that they think negatively of themselves, and that they don't look gd in the eyes of others (which may not neccessarily be true). This negative self image might be attributed to the environment in which the child was raised - for example, if there was any positive reinforcement by the parents of the child, or that were they constantly be belittled or berated?

A negative self image can easily translate into low self esteem, lack of confidence, easily initimidated by others, and a sense of worthlessness, all of which are things that we do not want to see in the children of our future.

The teacher's remarks has certainly made me more aware of this issue. Children, and even teenagers, are delicate pieces of paper, which can be torn easily by strong winds and rain. Our harsh words, are like the strong winds and rains, whereby as time goes by, will taint these wonderful spirits inside the child and limit their potential and growth.

Annie