Building Resilience in Children

As a parent or carer, it is important to understand the importance of building resilience in children and young people for positive mental health. Resilience refers to the ability to bounce back from challenges, setbacks, and stress in a healthy and positive manner. It helps children and young people to cope with life’s difficulties and maintain positive mental health.

Here is a guide for parents and carers to help build resilience in children and young people:

1. Encourage a positive attitude: Teach children and young people to see challenges as opportunities to grow and learn. Help them to focus on the positive aspects of a situation, rather than dwelling on the negatives.
2. Empower children and young people: Encourage them to take control of their own lives and make decisions. This helps them to feel confident and capable, and fosters resilience.
3. Encourage physical activity: Exercise has been shown to be beneficial for mental health. Encourage your child to engage in physical activities, such as playing sports or taking walks.
4. Teach coping skills: Teach children and young people coping strategies for dealing with stress and negative emotions, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and meditation.
5. Encourage healthy relationships: Encourage children and young people to build strong and supportive relationships with friends, family, and teachers. A strong support system is essential for maintaining positive mental health.
6. Encourage self-care: Teach children and young people the importance of taking care of themselves, including eating well, getting enough sleep, and engaging in hobbies they enjoy.
7. Model resilience: Children and young people learn by example, so it is important to model resilience yourself. If you are facing challenges, demonstrate to your child how you are coping in a healthy and positive manner.
8. Encourage communication: Encourage children and young people to talk about their feelings and experiences, and listen to them without judgment. This helps them to feel heard and understood, and fosters resilience.
9. Encourage problem-solving: Teach children and young people to identify and solve problems on their own. This helps them to feel confident and capable, and fosters resilience.
10. Celebrate success: Celebrate your child’s successes, no matter how small. This helps to build self-esteem and foster resilience.

In conclusion, building resilience in children and young people is essential for positive mental health. By encouraging a positive attitude, empowering children and young people, and teaching coping skills, you can help your child to develop resilience and cope with life’s challenges.

References:

1. American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Building Resilience in Children and Teens.
2. Mental Health Foundation. (2017). Building Resilience in Children and Young People.
3. National Institute of Mental Health. (2017). Promoting Resilience in Children and Teens.
4. World Health Organization. (2020). Mental Health and Resilience in Children and Adolescents.