From the Superintendent's
Seat
Give Your Child an A for Attitude
by Dr. Carole G. Hankin with
Randi T. Sachs
We all remember the classmates from
our childhood who seemed to be able to do it all. Were they
the best looking...the most athletic...the smartest? Sure,
the kids with these gifts stood out. But weren't there also
kids who succeeded because they were given a different "gift" from their parents?
They were given a "can do" attitude.
Imbue your children with high self-esteem and the confidence
that they can reach their goals and you will be rewarded with
children who succeed in school academically and socially and
who welcome new challenges in the classroom as the opportunity
to learn that they are. This is one area in which your influence
as a parent can make a tremendous impact.
Unfortunately, it's remarkable how
many parents actually undermine their own child's confidence
without intending to do so. They let their own doubts come
to the surface and even worry that they are building "false confidence," but
there's really little danger in that. Don't worry that you
are building your child up too much for a let down. Remember,
there are plenty of people out there who will provide a negative
influence for your child. Your own family does not need to
be part of that group. Believe in your children's abilities
and they will carry that with them for life.
Your family, whether it has two members, four members, or
more, can be an unabashed cheering squad for each of its members.
This includes siblings. Despite the inevitable existence of
sibling rivalry, don't allow your children to criticize or
ridicule one another for trying something new. Encourage them
to bolster one another and to help when they can. As the new
school year begins, this is the time you can give your children
the boost of confidence they need to make it their best year
yet.
One of the strongest ways you can help your children build
self-esteem is to help them identify and pursue their own special
talents. Recognize that what is special for your child may
not be a talent that is easily showcased on the athletic field
or on the stage. If your child is an avid reader, give him
or her just as much praise for enjoying books as you would
give for hitting a home run. If your child's friendly personality
is what makes him or her so special, you may be able to help
find an age-appropriate volunteer experience that will be very
rewarding.
Good luck getting your children off to a positive start of
a new school year. September is the time for new beginnings
and new opportunities to succeed. Start your children off with
an A for Attitude.#
Dr. Hankin is superintendent of Syosset Central School
District. Randi Sachs is Public Information Officer of Syosset
Schools.
