photo by Katherine Chase via Unsplash

by oliver ferguson, guest contributor

Just because children do not have the same obligations as adults does not mean they don't experience fear and worry when faced with stressful situations. We have composed a list of mental health suggestions for kids during difficult times. These suggestions can assist you and your child in dealing with emergencies and times of uncertainty. 

1. Create a Routine

Children thrive when they have a set schedule. Things that disrupt their daily routines can add to the stress and anxiety they are currently experiencing. As a result, one of our top mental health suggestions for kids is to establish a daily routine for them. Then they must set aside time for learning, playing, snacking, and eating. Last but not least, keep to your sleep routine. Brush, Book, Bed is a regimen recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics for winding down each night.

2. Discuss Feelings in an Open Manner

Maintaining open channels of communication is one of the most effective mental health suggestions for children. An expert at Savannah Legal, a family lawyer in Perth, cited that an open discussion with ex-spouses and their children will be vital to sort out a co-parenting plan that will benefit the family. 

Cover topics openly with children including living arrangements, children’s needs and activities, and child custody. Always reassure children that no matter what is going on, they can come to you with their feelings. 

Make sure they know you are listening if they have any concerns or queries. Recognize the value of their sentiments, and they will be more likely to come to you throughout their lives to talk about how they are feeling.

3. Keep Things Simple

Establish honesty and transparency with your children, especially when they are in distress. But, you should do so in a way that they can understand. Keep the information of the current events you share with them age-appropriate. The less complicated your discussions about the issue are, the less likely your youngster will be upset about it.

For instance, it is vital to inform children that their parents are divorcing, but how do you do it? "They don't need to know why the split occurred," according to Family Relationships Online, "but rather make it short, and keep it focused on the essential, objective facts."

Separation is a complex subject to discuss with children. Here are some suggestions for talking to them about it.

• Make it easy for your children to adore both parents (do not throw your ex-spouse under the bus).
• Maintain a straightforward approach.
• Be courteous – in front of the kids, do not criticize or ridicule the other parent.
• Assuage your children's fears by assuring them that the separation is not their fault.
• Concentrate on the future.

It is vital to develop a parenting plan during divorce or separation. It allows you to create a written agreement on parenting without going to court to get Consent or Parenting Orders. It aims to be simple, to develop and change, and each parent must write, sign, and date it. A parenting plan can cover any area of a child's care, welfare, and development. It gives you and your ex-spouse a better knowledge of your children's future arrangements.

4. Teach and Practice Healthy Ways of Stress Management

Even if you provide your child with the optimal environment, they will encounter stress from time to time. And as they become older, they will have new things to worry about. So it is a good idea to teach children how to deal with stress in a healthy way when they are young. Teach them some stress-management techniques to help them relax at the moment.

5. Make Time for Play and Movement

Creating time for your child to play is one of the best things you can do for their mental health. They need time to express their creativity, use their imaginations, and concentrate on enjoyable activities. Allow them some free time to have fun as long as they complete all the essential duties.

Make sure that part of the time you set aside for play is for physical activity. In the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) opinion, children over six should get a minimum of 60 minutes of physical exercise daily. One of the most uplifting mental health ideas for kids is to be outside and active (in safe ways, of course). Anything that keeps them moving can help them expand nervous energy while improving their mood and allowing them to sleep better.

6. Stay on the Lookout for Trouble Signs

Learning the signs of mental discomfort is one helpful strategy to assist your child with mental health. Because no two children are alike, identifying them might be difficult. But, there are some red flags that you should watch out for are:

• If controlling emotions is difficult
• Avoidance of regular activities
• Withdrawing from friendships and family relationships
• Having a hard time keeping up with duties
• Erratic conduct or angry outbursts
• Often in a depressed mood
• Weight loss or changes in dietary habits

The bottom line

Maintaining your child's mental health should be a priority. But, if you notice any indicators of a problem, speak with your child's doctor about your worries. Early intervention is crucial for the most effective treatment of mental health issues.

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