9 Ways to Model Self-Monitor to Your Child

Self-monitor is an executive function that describes the ability to view and evaluate oneself in a situation. Students who struggle with self-monitor have a difficult time understanding themselves, and they often do not know what they need to do differently.  This can frequently lead to difficulties in the classroom and with social interactions, and many students would benefit greatly from having self-monitor strategies modeled in the correct context so they can begin to see how to evaluate themselves and adjust their behaviors accordingly.

The following nine ways can help you model self-monitor to your child:

• When you create something, explain your thought process while you review your work for accuracy.
• After completing a project, show how you look at what you did, what worked well, and what you could change next time.
• Show your child how you use a checklist to review and revise your emails before you send them.
• When you have a negative thought, explain to your child how you replace it with something more positive to share.
• Talk about a feeling you are having, and then explain how you consider what situations may cause others to feel that emotion.
• Show your child the steps you are taking to develop a skill you would like to improve.
• During a conversation with child, show them what you do to actively listen to what they are saying.
• When you do not agree, share what questions you ask to help you understand the other person’s perspective.
• Show your child how you stay focused and ask good questions when a topic is being discussed.