This is a sponsored post
All parents want the best for their children in terms of their physical and mental health. We try to provide them with nutritious meals and make sure they get enough sleep and exercise, but sometimes we fail to support them in an emotional respect. This is largely because we have little understanding of what’s involved in ensuring a little person is mentally healthy. I have teamed up with a co-educational school in Hertfordshire to share some advice.
The best place to start is to consider your home environment. Is this a safe space for your child where they feel loved and supported no matter what? Do they feel confident enough to express their opinions and explore their sense of self without judgement? It’s wise to avoid harsh punishments if your child fails at something or does something wrong, because this will only hinder their self-esteem. Instead, help them understand that you love them no matter what and focus on praising things when something is going right. For example, if your child has studied hard for their exams but doesn’t get the grades they were hoping for, rather than showing you are disappointed, it would be better for you to praise them for trying their best so that they continue to do so in the future.
You should also encourage your child to pursue their interests, even if their interests are different to your own. Not only will this bring them joy, but it will also help them develop a range of key skills which will boost their self-esteem. For instance, if they learn an instrument, they will start to understand the importance of time management and commitment. If they play sport, they will become better team players. Having a hobby will also give them a much-needed break from their digital devices and help stimulate their mind and body in a more productive way.
It would be wise to maintain regular contact with your child’s teachers so that you can work together to support them. This will put you in a better position to tackle any issues as they arise, such as bullying or trouble with learning, so that you can avoid any mental health problems, like anxiety or depression. If you only communicate with your child’s school at Parents’ Evening, it may be too late, so to speak.