Which approach can best support a student with low self-esteem in a special education setting?

Fostering opportunities for small successes is the most effective approach to support a student with low self-esteem in a special education setting. This method helps build confidence and a positive self-image in the student. When students experience small successes, it reinforces their abilities and contributes to a sense of achievement. These incremental victories can motivate them to take on more challenging tasks and foster resilience, encouraging a growth mindset.

This approach is crucial because it creates a safe environment where students can learn at their own pace and feel valued. It shifts the focus from a deficit perspective to one that celebrates the student’s unique strengths and progress. By continuously providing manageable challenges and celebrating their successes, the student's belief in their own capabilities increases, making them more likely to engage in the learning process.

In contrast, competitive activities tend to heighten anxiety for students with low self-esteem, as they may feel inadequate compared to their peers. Constant supervision can create an environment of dependency and discourage independence. Disregarding past failures may dismiss the emotions tied to those experiences, rather than addressing them in a constructive manner that fosters growth and resilience. Thus, fostering opportunities for small successes effectively nurtures self-esteem while encouraging individual progress.