This publication reviews empirical research in an effort to: (1) help educators improve their understanding of self-concept development; and (2) identify effective strategies for developing positive student self-concepts. An introduction and a brief section on definitions is followed by a discussion of early (pre-school) self-concept development. The topic of schooling and self-concept development is then discussed in terms of the impact of school variables and self-concept enhancement strategies on student self-concept. A discussion of the teacher's role in self-concept enhancement follows, focused on diagnosis of student self-concept and the planning of intervention strategies. It is concluded that the impact of schools in general and teachers in particular on the self-images of youth can be negative, but that concerted efforts to bring about positive changes frequently succeed. In addition, future research should respond (1) to the need for more action research to identify effective change strategies and (2) to the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the construct of self-concept. Such an understanding would be particularly concerned with the way in which self-concept develops, what influences it, how it changes, and how the changes can be measured. Over 225 references are cited. (RH)

Children are already learning at birth, and they develop and learn at a rapid pace in their early years. This provides a critical foundation for lifelong progress, and the adults who provide for the care and the education of young children bear a great responsibility for their health, development, and learning. Despite the fact that they share the same objective - to nurture young children and secure their future success - the various practitioners who contribute to the care and the education of children from birth through age 8 are not acknowledged as a workforce unified by the common knowledge and competencies needed to do their jobs well. Transforming the Workforce for Children Birth Through Age 8 explores the science of child development, particularly looking at implications for the professionals who work with children. This report examines the current capacities and practices of the workforce, the settings in which they work, the policies and infrastructure that set qualifications and provide professional learning, and the government agencies and other funders who support and oversee these systems. This book then makes recommendations to improve the quality of professional practice and the practice environment for care and education professionals. These detailed recommendations create a blueprint for action that builds on a unifying foundation of child development and early learning, shared knowledge and competencies for care and education professionals, and principles for effective professional learning. Young children thrive and learn best when they have secure, positive relationships with adults who are knowledgeable about how to support their development and learning and are responsive to their individual progress. Transforming the Workforce for Children Birth Through Age 8 offers guidance on system changes to improve the quality of professional practice, specific actions to improve professional learning systems and workforce development, and research to continue to build the knowledge base in ways that will directly advance and inform future actions. The recommendations of this book provide an opportunity to improve the quality of the care and the education that children receive, and ultimately improve outcomes for children.

Offers more than 100 practical, class-tested exercises that can be integrated into the school day or used in specific self-esteem programs. Provides suggestions for organizing and sequencing activities. Based on solid learning and psychological research, with appropriate references to the literature.

Grade level: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, k, p, e, i, s, t.

Step-by step guidelines for raising responsible, productive, happy children. Self-image is your child's most important characteristic. How to help create strong feelings of self-worth is the central challenge for every parent and teacher. The formula for how is spelled out in Your Child's Self-Esteem. A member of Phi Beta Kappa and other honoraries, Dorothy Corkille Briggs has worked as a teacher of both children and adults; dean of girls; school psychologist; and marriage, family and child counselor during the last twenty-five years. Since 1958 she has taught parent-education courses and training in communication and resolution of conflicts.