Self-Concept

Helping Your Child Understand Himself

Self-concept is a person's beliefs, attitudes, knowledge, and understanding of himself. Your child has been developing his Self-Concept since birth, and is starting to understand his "Categorical Self," the groups that he belongs to. He knows if he is a boy or a girl, a son or a daughter, and a two-year old. He'll also be able to tell you his name and describe his physical features, his feelings, his belongings, his opinions, and his environment. It is also important to help build his self-esteem at this age by giving him specific praise (e.g. "Look how carefully you built that tower!" or "I really like all the color you used in your drawing!") and showing enthusiasm for his accomplishments.

Has your child achieved the following Self-Concept developmental milestones yet? If yes, check off all the skill(s) he has already mastered to date!