As the summer comes to an end and back to school is on the mind, let’s consider our kid’s mental well-being. It can be hard to walk down the halls of a school when you’re not feeling good about yourself. Help your kids start off the school year on the right foot by promoting their self-esteem and self-image.

Here are some tips parents can share with their children:

1. Stop critiquing yourself: Everyone has flaws- whether you can see them or not. Find what you love about yourself and focus on those aspects.
2. Embrace your uniqueness: Be yourself by doing what you love.
3. Don’t let others bring you down: No matter your age, you will come in contact with people who disagree with you and/or are unkind. Learn to ignore what others have to say and remain positive.
4. Don’t compare yourself to others: It’s common and normal to be envious of what it seems others have and you do not. Remember that we never know the full scope of what others are coping with and be appreciative for the blessings in your own life.
5. Sometimes “good enough” is ok: Most everything in life will not be perfect. Learn to set reasonable expectations of yourself and others and to be forgiving when things don’t go as planned.
6. Dress to impress (yourself): When you look good, you feel good too. Wear an outfit that reflects your true colors and makes you feel comfortable.
7. Be healthy: Exercise regularly, eat well, and get sufficient sleep. You’ll feel great and function better. Your body will thank you later if you do.
8. Do things that you enjoy: Find a hobby that makes you happy and try to integrate it into your schedule.
9. Set attainable goals for yourself: Goal setting gives us something to strive for and anticipate. Once you achieve your goal, allow yourself to feel pride in your accomplishment before moving on to the next one.
10. Smile! It’s actually proven to make you feel good.