What I wish you knew about your child’s mental health: how aiming for high self-esteem is a mistake | Bill Garvey

What I wish you knew about your child’s mental health: how aiming for high self-esteem is a mistake | Bill Garvey

High self-esteem is fragile, says developmental paediatrician Dr Bill Garvey. There are three pillars to helping children build a more stable sense of self

Abbey was seven years old when I met her. She was pretty shy at that first appointment at my paediatric developmental clinic, initially only looking at the ground and not responding to any questions. I always get intrigued when this happens.

Part of my brain is listening to the story the parent is telling me, trying to establish a shared understanding of their concerns, the journey so far and what the priorities might be for this family – but another part of my brain is listening for a “hook”.

Continue reading… High self-esteem is fragile, says developmental paediatrician Dr Bill Garvey. There are three pillars to helping children build a more stable sense of selfAbbey was seven years old when I met her. She was pretty shy at that first appointment at my paediatric developmental clinic, initially only looking at the ground and not responding to any questions. I always get intrigued when this happens.Part of my brain is listening to the story the parent is telling me, trying to establish a shared understanding of their concerns, the journey so far and what the priorities might be for this family – but another part of my brain is listening for a “hook”. Continue reading… Family, Children, Life and style, Mental health, Parents and parenting 

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