Building Confidence In A Dyslexic Child

After a long day at school my little girl could come home deflated, believing that she is not good at anything. She struggles with reading, writing and learning new information at school. Sadly this affected her confidence, self-esteem. She started to believe she could not do anything.  

I tried telling her, yes you are good at lots of things, it is not all about schoolwork. I found it hard to get her to listen and see she had so many good things about her. I came up with the idea of doing a “Self-esteem Sun” together, showing all things she is good at. It is now proudly displayed on the fridge.

Self-esteem Sun Card

The Mooki Cards contain a “Self-esteem Sun” card. To help dyslexic children build confidence. Use the card below on your phone or tablet for free!

This card is based on scientific research, on “Self-esteem in Dyslexic Children”.

Self-esteem and Dyslexia

• Falling behind at school, struggling to read and write. Dyslexic children can become frustrated and unmotivated. Without the right support at school the child can start to believe they can’t and won’t ever be able to do anything.
• Dyslexic children are more likely to become bullied at school. Given labels such as stupid, thick by their classmates. Teachers may misunderstand dyslexia, telling the child they need to work harder.  
• All these frustrations, negative experiences can lead to the child feeling anxious, depressed. They can develop low self-esteem, believing they are not good at anything. These negative self-beliefs can manifest as hyper, naughty behaviour. The child may also become very withdrawn, quiet.  

Learn more about self-esteem in dyslexic children, see “How to help your dyslexic child build self-esteem”.

Help Build Confidence

Top Tips from Dyslexic Mum

• Focus on Talents – Talk about what talents the child has. If they struggle at school, think about hobbies, clubs they attend. It is enough for the child to enjoy doing something, they don’t need to have won trophies.
• Personal Qualities – The child may be very kind, good at looking after their pets, younger siblings. They may have a best friend that they enjoy spending time with or a loving grandparent. These are good things they have in their life, that can build self-esteem and can be added to the “Self-esteem Sun”.
• Build Confidence – Help the child do more of what they enjoy, to help build their confidence. Try joining clubs outside school that are more about making friends, practical skills. Such as Scouts, dance and sports clubs.  
• Lots of Praise – Give them lots of praise when they achieve even small things, such as sharing a toy. Make the child feel proud when they have tried their best. Avoid putting any pressure on to feel like they have to win.

All the cards are available as part of a “Mooki Cards“. Complete with 56 cards and storage wallet. Perfect for using at home or in the classroom. Order your “Mooki Cards” here!