5 year old son feeling self-pity and negative

[babyboymum28112]

Hi, my almost 5 year old who is very bright, active and just a normal 5 year old boy views himself in a negative light always. He needs a lot of encouragement to try new things and does not like to celebrate his achievements. He will often focus on the negative moments of an experience. He is smaller than boys his age and I wonder if it is to do with physical size - he compares himself perhaps with bigger boys? Is there anything I may be doing as a parent that may be causing it? Or is this part of normal development and I am overthinking it?

How about introducing a check in at bedtime.

’What was your favourite thing today?’
’I liked seeing my friends at school’ ’
Its great you have such nice friends. I have two best bits, I loved seeing your excited face when you went high on the swing. And I liked trying that new recipe even though I found it hard.’

Model getting pleasure from things even if they are difficult and also show you notice his pleasure and effort. I think negativity can be a habit we all fall into and we need reminding that life can be joyous. If you could create a daily habit, I think things might shift.

I think it's a normal part of development, I have three and they have all been like this at different times. One ND child but the other two NT. I try to be positive and try to counter any negative comments but it can be draining at times.