Watch for monthly posts to learn about these 5 SEL competencies and ideas on how to help your children develop these skills
Self Awareness is the ability to understand one’s own emotions, thoughts, and values and how the influence behavior across contexts. This includes capacities to recognize one’s strengths and limitations with a well-grounded sense of confidence and purpose.
What does self awareness all include?
- Integrating personal and social identities
- Identifying personal, cultural, and linguistic assets
- Identifying one’s emotions
- Demonstrating honesty and integrity
- Linking feelings, values, and thoughts
- Examining prejudices and biases
- Experiencing self-efficacy
- Having a growth mindset
- Developing interests and a sense of purpose
How can we help develop children’s self awareness?
Give your child specific praise. Rather than “You’re smart.” or “Good job”, say “Your handwriting looks very neat.” or “You did a great job organizing your toys.” or “When the first way didn’t work, I noticed you tried another way. Smart thinking!”
Also, ask your child who they consider to be a positive role model and what characteristics support that. Then share who is or has been a role model for
you and why.
Food for Thought: Stop Telling Your Kids To “Be Careful” (and What to Say Instead)