Displaying portraits in the home boosts children's self esteem

My previous post led me to some further research on the power of portraits displayed in the home. Decorating with portraits can do more than add warmth and beauty to a home, it can actually enhance a child's self-esteem. In her book, "The Magic of Encouragement: Nurturing Your Child's Self-Esteem", psychotherapist Stephanie Marston suggests placing two pictures next to a child's bed. One should show the child happily involved in an activity that they enjoy, and the other should show family togetherness.

The two keys to high self esteem are a sense of being capable and of being loved. Displaying photos that illustrate this help to develop and reinforce those feelings and be a powerful influence on a child's well being.

David Krauss, Ph.D., co-author with Jerry Fryear, Ph.D., of Photo Therapy in Mental Heath, states, "It's important not only to be photographed in ways that indicate caring, nurturing, love and success, but also to see those images and take them in." The Cleveland clinical psychologist often uses client portraits and snapshots in therapy, and advocates periodically going through family albums with children to give them a clear vision of their growth and change, and to provide them with a sense of personal history. Photos should be displayed, Krauss says, because kids who see themselves on view feel loved and valued. The idea of a family photo gallery particularly appeals to Krauss. "What it says to a child is "I'm important in this family to the extent my parents acknowledge and honor my presence with wall space."

Anna Mae Kobbe, Ph.D., of Knoxville, states "We need to get photos out and enjoy them more. They are especially important in a child's room because they supply someone young with tangible security." Kobbe discovered that images of the whole family enjoying life evoke a strong sense of self, and that a visible picture of faraway friends or relatives helps the viewer feel more connected to that person. This is important, since many children live at a distance from grandparents and other relatives.

Take advantage of any opportunity to make positive photographs of your child and family. Then be sure to display them for the lifelong benefits you and your children will enjoy. Give me a call, I'll be glad to help.