STRATEGIES FOR GOOD MENTAL HEALTH

RESERVE JUDGEMENT

Creating a judgement-free zone for children to share their feelings, fears, concerns and hopes. Ask open-ended questions and allow for the child to fully express themselves.

CHECKLISTS

Children with anxiety as young as preschool age can benefit from checklists. A morning routine checklist can help a child make sure they are ready for the day without the fear of disappointing a parent or caregiver.

MEDITATION

Encourage children in your life to take a break from external pressures, including school work, family pressures and social media. Ten minutes of meditation in the morning or evening can help clear the child’s mind.

OUTDOOR TIME

Children can benefit from spending time playing outdoors, which can increase their physical literacy while helping to clear their minds.

SWITCH OFF

Switch off phones, iPads and computers at the end of the afternoon. Exposure to screens at night can affect sleep patterns, which can contribute to heightened emotions the next day.

FAMILY TIME

Spend family time with the children in your life to encourage open and honest dialogue and build trust between all family members.