This article is one of many informative pieces on wellness that you can find on Balanced Care’s website. Balanced Care is a naturopathic clinic with located in the Twin cities in Edina, Minnesota.
By: Anya Willis of FitKids.info
Self-care methods for kids are often a little different than what adults are accustomed to, but it’s still important to make sure your little one has access to the tools and resources that will help them recharge and manage feelings of stress or anxiety. Often, young people have trouble pinpointing the causes of those feelings, but you can help by teaching your child how to identify feelings and become more mindful so they can assess their emotions and cope with negative feelings when they come. Some self-care methods for kids are more about prevention, which is also beneficial. Here are a few tips on how to help your child practice self-care and keep stress at bay.
Be a role model
Children are pretty intuitive, and their environment has a direct impact on how they feel and act. If you’re stressed at work, chances are you’ll be feeling those effects when you get home, and your child will sense it. You can model the behavior you want your child to learn, however, by practicing self-care and reducing your own stress each day while you’re at work. Learn some breathing techniques, keep healthy snacks at your desk to remain energized, and make organization a priority so you won’t become bogged down during the day. You can also utilize these methods at home to show your child how you handle stress.
Spend some time outside
When you’re not at work, how do you and your child spend time together? Studies have shown that heading outdoors with kids can help you both sleep better and even improve your moods, and there are several fun outdoor activities you can do together that don’t require a big financial investment.
Find a hobby you both enjoy
Getting outside is a great way to release negative energy and boost your child’s mood, but on days when the weather isn’t cooperating, you may need to find an alternative. Depending on your child’s age, there are several hobbies you might try together that will help you both relax, find joy, and forget about the stressors of the day. Consider learning to play an instrument, or download a music-making app for the iPad that allows you to easily try several instruments without making a commitment to just one. Try cooking or baking together, which has other benefits for kids. Having a fun, relaxing hobby is important for young people who need an escape from the pressures of school.
Talk about physical self-care
While teaching mental and emotional self-care methods for kids is essential for all ages, it’s just as crucial to teach your child how to take care of their body. Talk about the importance of drinking enough water and eating healthy foods, how consent works, and how things like too much screen time can be harmful. Look for guidelines by age group that will help you and your child create healthy routines together.
Teaching your child about self-care is a great bonding opportunity for the two of you, and it will give you peace of mind that they’re able to handle stressors when they appear. By joining your child in some of these activities, you can become a wonderful role model as well.
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