Life can be stressful, fast paced and busy. Our children pick up on this and still have to go to school daily and are expected to give 100% and perform optimally. Statistics and professionals working with children have indicated that there is a marked increase in children suffering with anxiety, depression and anger issues and even having suicidal thoughts. It is so important that we as parents, grandparents and caregivers create an environment that enables our children to talk openly and honestly about the issues that may be troubling them.
How can we do this?
• Spend quality time with your child, with no cell phone, television or computer on hand.
• Maintain eye contact and show an interest.
• Play is the way children explore and often express their feelings so sit on the floor, go into the garden and allow your child to lead the way and just follow their play. You may learn a lot about your child and their world!
• Do not belittle or dismiss your child’s feelings, struggles or beliefs.
• Demonstrate unconditional love and acceptance.
• Do not compare your child with another.
• Accept your child for who they are – unique, special and irreplaceable.
• Cherish the limited time you have to sow in to your child’s life.
If your child is really struggling, seek professional input to enable them to get the help that is needed. Nothing is able to take the place of a healthy parent-child relationship, where the child feels loved and accepted and able to openly talk about their unique struggles.
Is that not what we all desire and look for?
By Toni Wilkins, Registered Social Worker and Member of SAASWIPP.