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As parents, we want the best for our children, therefore we are continuously seeking for information on the web to keep our knowledge about raising children up to date, especially with the start of the epidemic and the devastation it has caused in everyone's life. Individually, we have experienced a lot throughout this epidemic and have adapted to the harsh facts of life to emerge even more resilient. Our children look up to us for all the love and support they need. To develop into happy, well-adjusted adults, children must learn how to manage stress and anxiety. Also, to resolve conflicts amicably, they must acquire effective communication skills.
Here are six parenting tips that parents can adopt to help their children and also create awareness around mental health.
Create a Safe Space
One of the best things you can do for your child's mental health is to create a safe space where he or she feels comfortable talking about his or her feelings. This might mean creating a special room in your home, a playroom for instance, where your child can go and talk about things that are bothering him or her without any fear of being judged. It might also mean having a trusted adult who will listen to your child without judgment.
Be There For Them
Start by asking questions. Show them positive behavior and attitude and have empathy towards them. Ask them about their day at school and try to ask or rather figure out what kind of support they require. You can also approach your doctor for advice. Involving them in decision making gives them a feeling that their thoughts matter and this process will in turn teach them how to initiate concerns, listen to others , take calls when needed, be responsible for the outcomes and also learn life lessons from them.
Give Them Time Alone
One of the best things you can do for your child’s mental health is giving him or her some “me time”. This means giving your child space to think, reflect, and process without being interrupted. It's also important to let your child know that you care about him or her and that you will listen.
Avoid Over-Protecting
Let them be exposed to tough situations so that they learn ways to think, plan and resolve. Let them fall and get up by themselves at times . This way , they will learn to be independent and will also value hard work and patience which will instill strength and courage in them. and Of course , you will always be there to catch them when they fall.
Let Them Know They're Not Alone
If you notice that your child seems sad or anxious, try to figure out what might be going on. Ask questions like "What happened?" , "How did you feel after that?" and “How are you feeling now?”. Try not to make assumptions about why your child is feeling down. Instead, focus on helping your child express himself or herself. Kids love to receive positive feedback which will increase feelings of pride and confidence which can stick with them in the long run. This will often encourage them to repeat that behavior.
Talk About Feelings
It's normal for kids to feel sad, angry, scared, happy, excited, or confused. They may even feel guilty or ashamed. Talking with your children about these feelings will help them understand that everyone has different emotions and that there are lots of reasons why people feel the way they do. Assure them that “It’s okay to say I’m not okay” and that they will not be judged for feeling that way since everyone goes through this phase in life. Try to bring up and discuss about mental health with adolescents.
The most researched topic in the recent past has been around parenting. There are many methods, practices or traditions that have been researched, verified, or refuted. There is no one-size-fits-all strategy when it comes to parenting.