Self Esteem and Learning Disorders
How to help your kids
When a child or adolescent gets diagnosed with a learning disorder, oftentimes the first thoughts they have are “I’m different from everybody else,” and “I’m not as good.”
This way of thinking can greatly affect kids’ and teens’ self esteem. Confidence building is something that may need to take priority following a learning disorder diagnosis.
Here are some ways parents can help their kids regain their confidence.
Focus on strengths
We want to try to change their way of thinking of the diagnosis as a weakness
Interrupt their questioning of their worth or intelligence
Just because their mind works differently than their peers when it comes to schoolwork does not mean they are not smart, or other things they may be telling themselves
Maybe your child has other talents, maybe they are a kind and generous friend, maybe they are extremely funny
Parents can help by looking out for negative self talk, and pointing out their strengths instead of just disagreeing with them
Help your child find activities they enjoy
There are typically strengths that your kid could shine in that exist outside of a traditional classroom that kids with learning disorders have
The goal is not to be the best but to encourage them to explore their different interests and increase their confidence
Some kids are great at building things, and robotics may be a good fit
Try different sports, they may excel at multiple
Theatre, gymnastics, ice skating, or dance are good options for kids who struggle to sit still in their classroom all day
Baking or art are good outlets for more creative thinkers
Singing/ musical instruments
When it comes to the schoolwork
(Because it’s unavoidable), parents can praise their kid’s hard work and attempt rather than putting so much stress and pressure on what an acceptable outcome might be, like a certain grade, even when it’s a good grade.
This helps your child understand that the effort they are putting into school is what matters.
This could look like, “I know you worked so hard on this, you spent a lot of time studying, you did your best, and that’s what matters.”
When children are diagnosed with learning disorders, their dropping grades and lack of understanding (or being able to properly show their understanding) of the material can do a number on their confidence levels. It’s possible your child needs to speak with a therapist about this, so that they can work together on building it back up and recognizing their self worth. It’s also possible that your child needs a therapist to make sure they are getting the proper accommodations in school, if they need them. Reach out to Amel Counseling and Consulting today for a free, 15- minute phone consultation for the support your child and family need.
