A child’s mental health is hugely important to their success in school, their progression as human beings and to protect their overall physical health as well. Parents should take note of their child’s mental health and provide ways to continually support them in a way that works.
In this guide from a top boarding school in the UK we look at the ways you can help to support your child with their mental health needs.
Give your child the freedom to speak up
If a child isn’t comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with you then it’ll be much harder for your child to share with you how they’re really coping. Ensure that the home is a safe and happy environment for your child, where there is no judgement between others. This will come naturally over time as your child develops, but there are also ways in which parents can provide a safe space for their kids.
Encourage your child to keep a private journal
In making your child keep a journal they’re able to channel their thoughts in different ways. They have an outlet to express themselves through that no one else can see, and it’s important that you show your child that their journal should be kept a secret. A lot has been shared in the past about the benefits journaling has on children, as they’re able to vent their feelings, recollect their thoughts and change how they approach a situation in the future.
Journaling can be a big help to kids as they continue to navigate through a global pandemic. It helps them process their feelings and make sense of the changes happening around them.
But even during “normal” times, this practice encourages children to become more confident in their ability to express themselves. It also promotes writing, language, communication, and art skills.
By journaling daily and using fun custom writing tools like pens and colored markers, your child can grow while discovering open-ended writing. Your child will be free to express their true self and give their imagination free rein to grow into a creative, confident, and self-aware adult.
Incorporate plenty of positive-oriented activities
Activities and days out that are reward-based, fun and engaging will help your child know when they can switch off. There are many stresses when it comes to schoolwork, and it’s healthy, and encouraged, to have your child know when they can take a break from their studies and put their attention into something else. Fun-filled activities that take children away from stress can really help with their understanding of gratitude.
I find exam time is tough on my eldest son. He has dyslexia so gets extra time, but it still doesn’t make it easy to complete the papers in time