Does it really matter if your child takes first prize at the spelling bee, scores the winning goal for his soccer team, or wins the award for never missing a day of kindergarten? Actually to the surprise of many parents, the answer is yes! Though I am always discussing the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone and trying things even if you’re no expert, it’s equally important for kids to hone in on their strengths and achieve victory.  Personal accomplishments, no matter how big or small, are important building blocks to improving self-confidence and self-esteem.

A child’s well being includes a healthy body and a healthy mind. In fact, these two things are very much interrelated so when there is trouble in one area, the other is affected. Parents are in a unique position to set the groundwork to help build a strong “inner self” for their kids. This positive sense of self will help kids cope with potentially stressful situations such as starting a new school, having a new baby brother and nighttime issues such as bedwetting.

Even though bedwetting is a common condition, affecting more than 5 million kids over the age of five, many kids who wet the bed feel ashamed and embarrassed. That’s why it’s so important to acknowledge their feelings and also to give them accurate information.  GoodNites.com is a trusted resource for parents.  It’s also home to the NiteLite™ Panel, a team of parenting and medical experts who shed light on nighttime issues and help put them in perspective. By taking the struggle out of bedtime, parents can spend more time bonding with their child. Use these precious moments to discuss an achievement in your child’s day. Remember to ask open ended questions to keep the conversation flowing and reinforce the positive with genuine praise. Try not to give empty praise as your child will be on to you in a flash.  Kids are like detectives and can spot white lie miles away.  Accentuating the positive and eliminating the negative is still very good advice, especially at night.