It is common to see that some kids aren’t willing to help others.  Quite often we believe that these kids are selfish and lack empathy.  That may be the case, sometimes, but there is also another reason.  Many kids are not willing to help others because these kids lack confidence and self esteem.  That is, they believe that they have nothing to offer other people, so, they don’t bother.

     The negative feelings that these kids are experiencing can be changed.  The key is to make your child aware that he or she is liked by others and has skills to offer.

     I have used the following technique in my class many times.  I call it the “Me Advertisement’.  It is quite simple and very effective.  The idea is for your child to create an advertisement of him or herself.  Your child will draw or cut out a picture of him or herself and try to ‘sell’ his or her abilities.  This will allow your child to verbalize, write, and post all of his or her skills and characteristics that can be used to help others.  You might want your child to   include amiable character traits and skills at home and in the school (e.g. fixing things, drawing, problem solving, cooperating, coloring, giving a helping hand, telling jokes to make someone feel better, etc...).

     Try to have your child create a large list of positive traits (see the self-esteem chart in the resource section) and abilities.  Have friends and family members help your child with the list.  Post the list somewhere in the house where your child can see it on a regular basis.