One way to raise their self-esteem is to give them lots of praise. Catch them being good. Reward them when they meet your expectations.

It’s important to help children see that they are not their disability. Their problem is separate from who they are.

If you yell and blame them, they will think they are the problem. So try to avoid emotional reactions. When they frustrate you, count to 10 before you respond. Punish sparingly. Never ridicule.

These children often think they can’t do things well. So parents need to help them see they can.

To do this, have realistic expectations for your child. Research your child’s problem so you understand how it might affect his behavior at home and school.

Know your child’s strengths and weaknesses, but always focus on his strengths.

Finally, structure situations carefully so your child can achieve success:

• Assign doable jobs—like feeding the family pet, washing dishes, decorating the house for the holidays.

• Cultivate your child’s special interests. Help him start a collection. Take trips to a museum.

• Enroll your child in sports or another extracurricular activity. Let your child try several to find one best suited to him.

• Play with your child. Let him choose and direct games and activities. And if it’s not too obvious, let him win.

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