Parents recognize the importance of healthy eating, physical activity and adequate sleep to their children’s overall health. Here are five tips to open communications necessary for optimum mental health:
Be present. Look up from what you’re doing to focus on your kids. Take the time to enable intimate conversations to happen. Your undivided attention reinforces their sense of self-worth and belonging.
Model resilience. Help your child navigate life’s ups and downs by sharing personal experiences and the strategies that helped you bounce back from adversity.
Have fun. Make time for play and laughter. Focus on kid-centered activities – what’s your child’s idea of fun? Sometimes, it’s important to engage in activities on their terms. Make them the expert.
Let go. Create age-appropriate opportunities for kids to try new things on their own. Independence builds the confidence and self reliance kids need to make positive choices for themselves.
Notice, respond and support your child’s mental health cues, like giving them a hug when they’re down, being an active listener or getting them professional help if need be.
