Building Confident Kids

A recent report into absenteeism in schools has revealed that children as young as five are suffering from increasing levels of stress and anxiety.

Educational Psychologist, Karen Spitzer, says that a growing number of parents are seeking help for children experiencing learning and behavioural problems associated with poor self-esteem.

Karen says that a new program for children aged 5 to 7 called Building Confident Kids is proving helpful for many local children struggling to make friends and feel good about themselves.

‘Many children experience low self-esteem at some time in their lives.' she said. ‘A child might feel bad after getting a low mark or playing poorly in a match, but children who suffer from stress and anxiety are affected by more than just the occasional disappointment.'

Karen said that healthy self esteem allows children to feel proud of themselves and gives them the courage to try new things.

‘This is very important in the first years of school,' she said. ‘Kids who suffer from a lack of self confidence between the ages of 5 and 7 often struggle to keep up with the social and academic demands of their classroom and playground.'

She said that the new program helps anxious children and supports kids who find it difficult to make friends or try new things.

‘Some children frequently speak negatively about themselves, saying things like "I'm stupid," "I'll never learn how to do this," or "What's the point? Nobody cares about me anyway."

‘They may exhibit a low tolerance for frustration, give up easily or wait for somebody else to take over. In a school environment this can cause real concern because it affects how they are perceived by other kids. Confidence can quickly spiral down and parents are wise to step in to support their child if this is happening at school or home.'

Karen said that Building Confident Kids is a small group program in which children benefit from the support and expertise of a qualified psychologist and children's counsellor.

‘Each week, Building Confident Kids teaches children to become independent and to make good decisions. It focuses on helping them to interact appropriately with their peers and to stand up for themselves and for what they believe in.'

Building Confident Kids is an 8 week program and the next course commences on Thursday 18 June at Kids First Children's Services at Brookvale. Some health funds offer rebates for this program.

For more information, visit www.kids-first.com.au or call 9938 5419

To secure a place for your child in the next Building Confident Kids program at Kids First, download your enrolment form here