Self esteem for Girls/Boys- 100 Tips for Raising Happy and Confident Children

Author- Elizabeth Hartley Brewer

Age Range- 3-16+

Key words- self esteem (top tips)

Every parent wants their child to have good self-esteem. The quiet confidence that self-respect gives is important for children's development, it allows them to try new things, learn new skills, play, love and communicate better. These two books- one for the parents of girls, one for the parents of boys, address differences between boy and girl children. They show parents how they might understand some of the particular challenges and opportunities each gender faces.

Chapters comprise a short introduction followed by tips on how to go about things. Because of this structure these books are easy to dip into, and contain useful hints for the parents and teachers of children of all ages.

There are chapters on: helping children to develop inner strength and resist the pressure of peer group demands; managing behaviour in ways that preserve and promote their self-esteem; responding sensitively when children experience set backs; and supporting them as they learn and helping them to reach their goals. The idea of keeping in mind 100 tips could make these books seem like a tall order, but that is not what they recommend and the friendly approach taken is not daunting. The quotes from adults recalling their childhood, and parents recalling worrying times that were overcome, are very reassuring.