It’s tough being a parent, you want to protect your children from the world they’re growing up in, whilst also trying to equip them for what lies ahead as they become more independent.
With what’s going on in the world right now it can be hard to shelter them from the news, when everywhere we turn we are surrounded by the horrors of war and devastation.
So, this month our blog is about how to help children feel safe. Here are a few tips for actions you can take to help calm any fearfulness.
1. Stick to routines - Children find safety in routine, predictability and consistency.
2. Enforce boundaries - They might not like it sometimes but enforcing boundaries helps children feel secure.
3. Praise them - Remind them how amazing they are. Great marks in a test? Tell them how proud you are. Helped a friend in need - Tell them these are great qualities. Kept their room tidy? Tell them they did a great job.
4. Listen - Sometimes children may not know quite how to broach a tricky subject. They may often refer to friends and hypothetical situations, make sure you are listening and respond to cues and explore further gently.
5. Have fun - Life can be tough sometimes and it can be hard to find time for some real quality time together, but when you do, you are so glad you did. Make time for fun and laughter. Act silly sometimes, remind them how good it is to laugh so hard your tummy hurts.
And remember that sometimes, for everyone’s mental health, including your own, it’s good to turn off the television. Take a walk, get out in nature and explore, and remind yourself and your family that the good in the world far outweighs the evil. Which reminded us of this quote;
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’ To this day, especially in times of ‘disaster,’ I remember my mother’s words, and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers — so many caring people in this world.” - Fred Rogers
