May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This is the month when we can work super hard at removing the stigma around getting help for your mental health when needed. But how do we keep our children’s mental health strong? Here are five must-follow tips to keep your kids happy with a strong mindset.
1. Promote a balanced lifestyle.
Kids need to be engaged in play as much as they need to be taught the rules of life. Play is an essential element that helps children develop emotionally, physically, and mentally. Unstructured play allows children to discover what they love to do, which can help them cultivate interests that can last a lifetime. Play teaches children teamwork and social skills, settles conflicts, and develops imagination.
2. Provide structure and boundaries.
Use a positive, constructive, consistent approach to guide your child’s behavior.
3. Teach optimism.
Show them there is always a silver lining to everything, even if sometimes it feels like there may not be.
4. Give children unconditional love.
Love, security, and acceptance should be at the heart of family life. Mistakes should be expected and accepted. Confidence grows in a home that is full of unconditional love and affection.
5. Model positive behaviors.
Model the importance of self-care. Show children that you have to take care of yourself before you can take care of the things or people around you.
