The issue of the mental health of our children is being brought up by teachers, parents, and other professionals more and more often these days.
While there is no “one fix-all” solution, I came across the article and wanted to share a few tips from it with you. Some of the tips are easier said than done, of course. However, it is a start. Food for thoughts, if you will, to help create our own ways to be there for our children.
Here are some of the ideas:
Encourage kids to open up, to share their feelings. Encourage them to discuss their struggles and how they feel about them. No judgments or labels needed, just sharing. Simply, let them know it’s okay to feel all that they feel.
It is also very important to give your kids some space. They may need some time to understand their feelings and sit with them before they’re ready to share. This process is just like going fishing; patience pays off.
Please give your kids a break. Encourage time for fun and space for relieving some of the pressure. School and learning, and probably even their friendships, are challenging. It is important to give your teens the opportunity to do what they like to do to unwind. Whether that is playing a video game, going for a run, or dancing with the music turned up. You don’t have to like it. As long it works for them, it will do the trick. They should know they’re allowed to take breaks when things get hard.
One more important thing, don’t forget about yourself. Please make and take time to relax, breathe, drink, talk with a friend or whatever works for you. Showing your kids that you take time for yourself encourages them to take care of themselves. You got this.
Anna Scoby
Founder of Project Be You, Public Speaking Coach, Speaker
https://www.projectbeyou.com
