Many self-help tips focus on adults, but there are many that can prove helpful for children as well. Among them are those that recommend avoiding comparing oneself with others and understanding that no one is immune to mistakes. A child might also benefit from tips that recommend avoiding negative self-talk and focusing on positives instead. Additionally, a child could benefit from tips that focus on seeking help when it is needed.
One of the best tips for self-help for children involves drawing comparisons. Generally, it is not healthy to spend much time comparing oneself to others. As such, many self-help tips recommend that kids focus on their own good characteristics instead of trying to measure up to someone else. For example, if a child spends a lot of time comparing himself to children he views as faster, more popular, smarter, or more handsome, this can prove damaging to his self-esteem. In such cases, the child would probably benefit from recognizing that everyone has good characteristics and faults, and then focusing on the characteristics he appreciates about himself.
Another good tip for self-help for children is to understand that everyone makes mistakes. Sometimes children become so upset with themselves that they spend a shocking amount of time replaying a mistake in their minds and silently chastising themselves for it. This can prove damaging to one's mental health, especially if it becomes a pattern that is repeated over a long period of time. A child is usually better served by admitting his mistakes and making apologies if necessary, and then moving on with the hope of doing better next time.
Often, the best tips for self-help for children also focus on self-talk. Many people don't realize it, but the things they say to themselves can have as much effect on them as what they hear from others. Sometimes children engage in a good deal of negative self-talk, such as by telling themselves they are stupid, ugly, or fat. Some kids even convince themselves that no one likes them or that they are worthless. Good self-help tips involve getting kids to recognize the effect such self-talk can have on them and encouraging them to make a conscious effort toward positive self-talk instead.
Good tips for self-help for children also focus on the need to seek help when warranted. Often, children feel shy about asking for help when they need it. Some may even feel afraid to seek help. The best self-help tips are those that encourage kids to seek assistance when they need it, whether it is help with difficult school work, a bully, or even an abusive parent. A trusted adult family member may prove a good source of help, but some problems may call for the help of a school counselor, doctor, or even a police officer.
