6 Ways To Nurture Your Kid’s Mental Health

Some children seem to be born with healthy self-esteem while others need a bit of encouragement. Your child’s emotional well-being directly influences their physical health. A strong sense of self can help your child to be more resilient emotionally when he encounters obstacles along the way, or when things don’t go as planned.

Just like providing your child with his physical needs, such as clothes, food, and shelter, it is equally important to take care of his emotional needs as well. It can be easier than said, but there are some guidelines that you can follow that lay the groundwork for kids to become emotionally healthy adults. Here are ways to look after your kid’s mental health that can make a significant difference.

6 Ways To Nurture Your Kid’s Mental Health

Teach Children About Negative Emotions

Encourage your children to express their feelings and to respect it. Explain to them that it is normal for everyone to experience anger, pain, anxiety, and fear. Try to figure out the source of those feelings. Teach your children how to express negative feelings in a positive way, without resorting to violence. Not all kids find it easy to express what they are feeling. You can encourage journaling. By writing down those feelings, it can help them to acknowledge them in a tangible way which might make them easier to deal with.

Do Not Push Your Child Beyond What He’s Capable Of

Be mindful of your child’s development stage. Do not expect too little or too much from him. Keep track of certain milestones that he should master at certain stages and always keep in mind that not all children are the same. Never compare your child to someone else’s child. Foster your children’s self-worth and independence. Show that you trust them and have confidence in their ability to deal with issues or tackle new experiences.

Never Close Communication Channels Between You and Your Child

Always keep communication channels open and try to encourage mutual trust and respect. It can be difficult to keep your voice level down when it feels like they are pushing all your buttons at once. Remember you don’t always have to agree on everything. Instead of yelling, rather explain to him in a calm way why you’re not agreeing with him.

Don’t Forget To Listen

Just like us, kids want to be heard. Allocate some time during your day where you focus on him and listen to what he has to say. Ask him about his day and encourage questions. Provide assurance and comfort where necessary. Try to let him understand that he can always come to you and that you are willing to talk about anything. Always answer honestly.

Set a Good Example

When last did you check your coping and problem-solving skills? Children mimic the behavior of their parents. Are you setting a good example? If you get overwhelmed by the behavior of your child’s feelings reach out and get help. Never punish your child out of anger. Make sure your feelings are under control and you’re not acting out of anger or frustration.

Never Underestimate The Value Of Quality Time

Quality time between you and your children is an essential building block for positive relationships. It can happen at any time, no matter where you are. Quality time together involves thoughts, experiences, and feelings. Quality time with your child shows that you appreciate and value them.

You can use the time by sharing a laugh, reading a story before bedtime, listening to their favorite song, or drawing with them. Forget about your phone and the rest of the world and focus on them for 30 minutes a day. Love them unconditionally and teach them the value of cooperation, empathy, consideration for others, apologies, forgiveness, and patience.

We hope these six tips for nurturing your kids’ mental health have been helpful and that you will try some of them to help your child grow into an emotionally strong and healthy grown-up one day. Remember not to be too hard on yourself. Nobody can be perfect, we are just human. Parenting can be hard and all you can do is do your best. If you have a bad day, just try to do better the next day.

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