Social-Emotional Development
Self-Esteem and Self-Concept in Relation to Media
There are many influences that our children are subjected when it comes to how they look and how they feel they are supposed to act. Our culture has constructed an “ideal image” for girls and boys to obtain and if they do not obtain this look they are not considered normal. Today, there is more controversy and research on how both girls and women are impacted by these ideas of what should be considered an average body type. It is equally as important to recognize the underestimated impact it has on young boys. If children do not fit this "criteria" that the media promotes such as gender stereotypes as feminine and masculine, they feel obsolete. Teachers and parents have this idea that boys are constructed to be strong and confident. Together it is important that we inform children that everyone is different and it is okay for them to express their feelings. We need to tell children that the media is not a relevant source to turn to and discuss the issues within the controversy.
Activity for Parents:
Parents are instructed to encourage their children to take part in different activities they enjoy and are good at. This is beneficial for children because it promotes a postive self-concept based on activities on diverse aspects of the self, not just the physical appearences. It is important to acknowledge that children during this stage are very subjective to influences and the media is not one they need to follow.
Family relationships - Siblings
Parenting styles range throughout siblings. They are also different depending on the gender of the children. Sister-sister realtionships are different from brother-brother relationships or sister-brother relationships. The number of siblings is not as important, but depending on age differences that could affect the relationship closeness. Siblings are a major impact in childrens social world. There are many different feelings that siblings experience such as jealousy or rivalry. However, there is always a deeper expectation within siblings that there will be extra support between them in times of need. Sibling relationships impact the relationship with the parents as well. Warm sibling relationships can help children deal with stress in their lives.
Activity for Parents with multiple children:
For middle aged children to explore differences in the parenting styles within their siblings. Such as how was one child raised in different terms than the other. For some it might consist of younger boys and girls there are inadvertantly different stereotypes such as boys helping outside and girls participating in inside chores.
Family Relationships - Only Children
There is a stereotype that only children are more spoiled or they are lacking social experiences. In many different comparisons, only children share the positive advantages of being the firstborm children enjoy. There is a higher achievement rate in only children and this could be due to having more pressure to be successful in school and also postive development. Also, only children typically demonstrate good adjustment, strong character, and positive social relationships. Typically, it is easier for parents to focus on one child rather than multiple. However, one is not more beneficial than the other. There are diverse family types and their are benefits to both only children and have siblings.
Activity for Parents:
Promote social relationships within their peer group. Allow children to socialize with children who expereine the same interest as they do. Parents are a great support group for the children but they also need friends their age. It is important for children to have access to this so they will not experience being lonely or dependance on parents.
