I am old-school. <begin rant>I think people develop positive self-esteem by actually acquiring and mastering skills, not just by being told incessantly how awesome and perfect they are </end rant>. One of the great benefits of teaching sewing is I actually get to witness the concrete progression of skills that students attain over time. Like watching C cut out a new skirt, for instance. Maybe not 100% accurately, but a darn good job for a nine year-old.
Nice work, C, keep it up!
Happy sewing!
Maris Olsen