If you are a parent, teacher, etc of a child with a disability

....how can you help the child develop positive self regard?

It is very important to address the child's self esteem issues up front. This can be done by emphasizing what the child can do instead of dwelling on what the child can not do. Praise the child for her real skills and positive attributes, but do not hesitate to offer constructive criticism when necessary. Remember if you spoil a child with a disability then you just have a spoiled child with a disability! This does neither you nor the child any good and can harm the child's potential to cope in the future.

It's also important to get the child involved in activities such as wheelchair sports or special camps so that he can see that he is not the only one with a disability. This goes a long way toward decreasing self pity and loneliness. Many kids look forward to these activities since it provides them with a chance to be around people who understand what they are going through in a deeper way. This can also be a good way to find your child an adult mentor with the same disability who can be a positive role model.

Help your child process peoples' reactions to her disability as much as possible. Your child will receive both positive and negative reactions at times. Allow your child to express his feelings, but discourage him from using negative experiences as an excuse to give up trying.

Encourage your child to develop a rich spiritual life. This will help your child in many ways.

Don't forget to encourage your child to have a sense of humor. Taking things too seriously is a phase children go through, but it is particularly important for a child who has a disability to learn to laugh at things that happen when possible. This can defuse many awkward situations.