Chapter Six: Insights to Self-Esteem
Discover why we should use Adaptive Skills over IQ when determining the level of need for our kids.

Key Takeaways for Parents/Caregivers

Emotional Fuel Tank
Self-esteem acts as an “emotional fuel tank” for children, especially those who are neurodiverse, and requires regular, intentional support to keep it filled

Self-Esteem Fluctuates
Children’s self-esteem is not constant; it fluctuates day to day and is difficult to measure, making it important for parents to be attentive to subtle changes

Building Resilient Self-Esteem
Building resilient self-esteem is about nurturing an inner voice that affirms a child’s worth, regardless of performance or challenges faced

Risk of Low Self-Esteem
Neurodiverse children (such as those with ASD, ADHD, or FASD) are at a significantly higher risk for low self-esteem and related mental health challenges, including suicidal ideation, highlighting the need for early intervention and parental support

Symptoms of Low-Self-Esteem
Symptoms of low self-esteem are often misinterpreted as behavioral problems and can include social withdrawal, emotional dysregulation, and communication difficulties

Building Positive Self-Esteem
Celebrating small wins and daily achievements helps reinforce a child’s self-worth and builds positive neural pathways associated with confidence

Recognizing Strengths
Creating a personalized “strengths list” helps children recognize and internalize their unique talents and positive traits, counteracting negative self-talk

Brain Region Roles
Brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, and amygdala have specific roles in self-reflection, emotional self-awareness, and emotional regulation, all of which impact self-esteem

Influence of Memory Systems
Memory systems influence how children recall their achievements; visible reminders of past successes can help them access confidence in new situations.

Impact of Executive Function
Executive function difficulties can make planning and organization overwhelming, leading to self-doubt; breaking tasks into small steps and celebrating progress can scaffold success

Emotional Self-Regulation
Attention and affect regulation (emotional self-regulation) are critical; creating environments and routines that support a child’s unique attention and emotional patterns can foster a sense of competence and security.

Adult Support for Confidence
Supportive adults, like teachers or librarians, play a crucial role in helping children find and use creative outlets to manage anxiety and build confidence.
Explore Further
Recommended Readings
Join the Conversation
We invite you to delve deeper into the transformative insights of Embracing Hope. Share your experiences with Chapter six and connect with a community of caregivers dedicated to making a difference. Your story could inspire others on their journey.