According to a study by the Health Resources Administration, the number of children with anxiety or depression grew by almost 30% in 2020. Children are especially vulnerable to the stressors in today’s world and need guidance to help them prioritize self-care. Here are some strategies that parents can use to help their kids reset and thrive.
Be Consistently Active
Parents should start by making sure their kids are active throughout the day. More physical activity for kids is linked to several mental health benefits, such as better grades and less anxiety and depression. Parents can make sure the family does activities together, such as hiking, biking or playing sports.
Use Art to Unwind
Art projects may also help your child focus on self-care. If they are feeling stressed out, you can redirect their anxiety into an art activity, such as making a craft, painting a picture or building something with modeling clay. Art benefits child development and helps them thrive.
Incorporate Music in Your Day
Music can also help children unwind and relax. You can listen to music together to calm down, or you can try to get your child to make music. Invest in private lessons or consider building your own home music studio to give your child a space to practice and connect with their musical side.
Meditate Together
Meditation also has lots of benefits for a child’s mental health and self-care. You and your child can learn the basics of meditation together. Eventually, your child can access mediation on their own when they are feeling down or anxious.
Plan a Trip
A vacation is a great opportunity to bond with loved ones and focus on self-care. If you’re interested in planning a trip that will allow you to relax and rejuvenate, choose a destination that offers plenty of activities that everyone in your family will enjoy. For example, a trip to Disney World could be fun for the whole family. Before planning a trip, visit MouseLifeToday.com to learn more about Disney-related news and potential discounts.
Teach Breathing Exercises
Kids may also find breathing exercises helpful in calming down after a bad day or a stressful moment. Parents can lead their children in easy breathing exercises that can quickly help them with relaxing and feeling better.
Fix the Sleep Routine
If your child isn’t getting enough sleep, that may also lead to more stress and crankiness. Focus on having healthy sleep habits and a bedtime routine that gives your child plenty of time to unwind. Avoid screen time right before bed and use calming techniques to help your child gently fall asleep.
Prioritize Quality Time Together
Parents also must prioritize quality time with their kids, even when busy. Make a routine where you have bonding time each day with your children, such as a bedtime routine or making dinner together. Plan plenty of new experiences together so your children feel important and valued, and you don’t feel guilty.
Get Mental Health Support
Sometimes, you may need to get outside support for your child if they have stress and anxiety. Online therapy may be a better fit for a busy schedule and more options for licensed providers. It’s private and secure and less of a commitment than in-person therapy. Virtual appointments also save travel time and money. Some therapists have a free consultation so you can ensure you get the right fit for your child.
Knowing self-care is a skill that all children need to learn. Parents can guide their kids on this essential piece of mental health so their kids can flourish.