Turtle Technique: Tricks To Improve Self-esteem

Teaching children to control themselves is not easy, especially if they have ADHD or other behavioral problems. In these cases, we recommend using techniques designed to help. The turtle technique, for example, is an excellent option. It not only teaches children about self-control, but also has many other benefits for children. In this article, we will take a closer look at how it can improve their self-esteem.

First of all, we need to find out what self-control is. Self-control is the ability to regulate the intensity, frequency, and duration of our own behaviors and emotions. This includes controlling impulses, stress, frustration, anger, aggression, fear, etc.

What is the turtle technique?

The turtle technique is based on the fact that when they feel threatened, they retreat and hide in their shield. Children can do the same to control their own impulses, behaviors, and emotions in a particular situation. To use this self-control technique correctly, you need to follow some steps. Teach your child to:

1. Respond to the word “turtle”: When your child hears this keyword, put his head in his arms.

2. He should relax the muscles while in this position. When his muscles are relaxed, he will be less aggressive and disruptive.

3. Apply problem solving techniques (discussion groups, role play, positive reinforcement, social reinforcement, meditation, etc.). Teach your child that there are other ways to handle the situation.

It is important to teach the child these steps gradually. That is, you cannot move on to the next step until your child has mastered the first. Thereby, your child will become familiar with the turtle technique little by little and he will be able to perform each step correctly.

Advantages of using the turtle technique

As we have seen, the primary purpose of the turtle technique is to teach children how to control themselves. In addition, there are other advantages to the technique:

• It improves the way one expresses and acknowledges emotions
• It increases social skills
• One gains a better understanding of different views and opinions
• It improves the decision-making process
• You learn how to easily resolve conflicts

• It helps to increase self-esteem

But do you know why this technique improves children’s self-esteem? We will tell you more about it in the following section.

How does the technique affect self-esteem?

Mastering the turtle technique has very positive effects on children’s self-esteem.

• Children learn self-control without the need for others to intervene. This includes parents, teachers and other adults. Children will therefore learn to rely on their own abilities.
• Children achieve positive reinforcement when they do not exhibit inappropriate behavior. Thanks to this, they feel satisfied with their actions and decisions because they are being rewarded.
• They feel like big kids who know how to use problem-solving techniques instead of acting impulsively.