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Lack of ConfidenceChildren who lack confidence can appear shy and may avoid social situations. They are often self-critical as well as self-conscious and tend to believe that other children are laughing at them or dislike them. As a result they withdraw from any experience or circumstance that might result in them feeling embarrassed or scared or they act in a hostile way to their peers. Misunderstood by othersOther children may see those who lack confidence as unfriendly or odd which is tragic, as often they desperately want to relate but are reluctant to make the first move. Bullying is often a direct result of lack of confidence as children who feel bad about themselves are often picked on; paradoxically they can also be the ones who do the bullying! Parents can helpIn order to encourage your child to gain more self-confidence try to get them involved with other people with children of the same age. Invite them to your home and model sociability so that they see how it is done. Get them interested in a new hobby or interest or a skill that could help to ease them into some group activity. Show your approval of even their smallest efforts by putting drawings on the wall etc. Practise with them how they might strike up a conversation with a would-be friend. Praise every little advance and then praise it again. Deal with setbacks pragmatically 'OK, you didn't manage it today. We'll do it again tomorrow'. Share the secret that in order to seem confident we have to act in a confident manner, even if we are shaking inside. "Smile when you're scared" is good advice but it needs practice. Lack of confidence may be caused by
For more individual guidance on how to help a child who is lacking in confidence, "Ask the Experts" and see the Success Story Therapy Dog Helps Confidence.
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Suggested Flower Remedies: 'Self Esteem' or 'Bluebell' from 
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