Top Tips for Talking to your Child about Mental Health
“When we talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting and less scary.” Fred Rogers
Talking to your child about mental health can be daunting but follow our top tips for talking to your children about mental health and you will be absolutely fine.
Teach them to identify their and others’ emotions.
The first step in teaching your child to manage strong emotions is to teach them what they physically feel like and to be able to name those emotions. Try to make it a habit to put your child’s emotions into words “I could see you were sad. I know you were upset because you wanted to finish Paw Patrol.”
Using books and small world play is a great way to teach children how to recognise other people’s emotions and how to support a friend when needed.
Pick your time carefully
Try not to talk to your child when they are in the middle of a big emotion or when you are tired and upset. It will not end well. The best time to talk about emotions is when you are both calm and relaxed. Try sitting side by side and playing with some playdough or sensory rice to keep fingers busy.
Listen!
None of your child’s worries or feelings are too little to ignore. By listening to your child you are saying that their feelings are valid and this will encourage them to continue opening up to you.
Be honest
Children need to know that big emotions are normal and that everyone has these feelings sometimes. Share with your little one the situations that have made you sad, angry, excited and how you have dealt with those situations. Let them know that emotions are normal and that they can be managed.
Take a deep breath
Trust me, unless you tell a child to put their emotions in a box and stamp on it, you really can’t go too far wrong. Finding 10 minutes to do an activity together that you both enjoy will create a relaxed atmosphere to encourage you both to share.
