Caroline Goldsmith | ATC Ireland Psychologist: When to Seek Professional Help for Your Child’s Mental Health

Caroline Goldsmith | ATC Ireland Psychologist: When to Seek Professional Help for Your Child’s Mental Health

Blog Article

In an age where external validation and social comparison can deeply affect a child’s mental health, nurturing a strong, authentic self-image has never been more important. Caroline Goldsmith, a renowned psychologist at ATC Ireland, emphasizes that a positive self-image is not about inflated praise or perfectionism — it’s about helping children understand, accept, and appreciate who they are at their core.

What Is Self-Image in Children?

Self-image refers to how a child perceives themselves — their abilities, value, appearance, and worth. It develops over time through experiences, interactions, and internal beliefs formed by how they’re treated and what they’re told. A healthy self-image allows a child to feel confident, try new things, cope with setbacks, and develop healthy relationships.

Why Positive Self-Image Matters

• Encourages Emotional Resilience: Children with a strong self-image are better equipped to handle failure, bullying, and change.

• Supports Academic and Social Growth: Confidence in themselves encourages active learning and healthy peer interactions.

• Reduces Risk of Mental Health Issues: Positive self-perception is a protective factor against anxiety, depression, and low motivation.

• Promotes Independence and Responsibility: When children believe they are capable, they’re more willing to take on challenges and solve problems.

Strategies to Help Children Develop a Positive Self-Image

1. Use Specific, Genuine Praise

Praise effort, not just results. Instead of saying “You’re so smart,” try:

“You worked really hard on that, and it shows!”

This reinforces a growth mindset and shows that their value doesn’t depend on being perfect.

2. Allow Them to Fail Safely

Failure is part of growth. Caroline Goldsmith encourages parents to let children make manageable mistakes and reflect on what they’ve learned. Creating a safe environment for failure helps children internalize the idea that they are still valued even when they’re not successful.

3. Promote Self-Awareness Over Comparison

Help children focus on their own progress and individuality, rather than comparing themselves to others. Ask:

“What did you enjoy most about doing that?” or
“How did you feel when you finished?”

This shifts their focus inward and builds intrinsic motivation.

4. Model Positive Self-Talk

Children mirror the language adults use about themselves. If a child hears a parent say, “I’m terrible at this,” they internalize similar thinking. Caroline suggests modeling self-compassion:

“That was hard, but I’m learning. I’ll keep trying.”

5. Encourage Problem-Solving and Autonomy

Allowing children to make decisions — from picking out clothes to choosing weekend activities — boosts their sense of agency and self-trust. Support them with guidance, not control.

6. Avoid Labels and Comparisons

Even positive labels like “the smart one” or “the athletic one” can backfire. These can become pressure points or limit how a child sees themselves. Focus instead on affirming who they are as a whole person, not just one attribute.

7. Celebrate Uniqueness

Whether it’s their creativity, sense of humor, empathy, or curiosity, celebrating a child’s individuality strengthens their internal identity. Caroline emphasizes the importance of helping children see that they are valued for being, not just for doing.

Final Thoughts

Helping a child develop a strong, healthy self-image is a lifelong gift. It’s not about boosting ego or shielding them from discomfort — it’s about helping them build an honest, kind, and flexible view of themselves. Through consistent support, mindful communication, and unconditional acceptance, we can guide children to grow into confident, compassionate, and emotionally resilient individuals.