Supporting Children's Mental Health
The emotional wellbeing of children is just as important as their physical health. Good mental health allows children and young people to develop resilience to cope with whatever life throws at them. Alarmingly, 1 in 10 children and young people in the UK are affected by mental health problems. They include depression and anxiety; which is often a response to whatever is happening in their lives.
As an Early Years professional I have seen an increase in how many young children suffer with mental health issues, particularly anxiety. I have worked with many children who are anxious during social interactions, have food anxieties and or unwilling to challenge their abilities. Some research suggests this is down to the lack of free play children are given during the preschool and primary school years. The research implies that the increase in adult led teaching and learning has had a direct impact on levels of anxiety in children, due to the lack of freedom to explore and develop personal interests. Whilst I disagree with some of this research, I do believe that increased focus on data and outcomes may have an impact upon the way children feel and respond to learning. I am pleased to see changes to the Early Years Inspection Framework coming into force September 2019, whereby inspectors will focus more on the quality of learning experiences rather than data analysis.
So what can we do as parents and practitioners to look after children’s mental health?
Love and Availability – Show care, kindness and compassion, sometimes a hug can be more powerful than any words.
Exercise – Physical exercise releases the feel good hormone antioxidant. Running, jumping and exploring the outdoors are all great way to increase antioxidant levels.
Support – Support, encourage and praise.
Rest and Sleep – Ensure children are given periods of rest and quality sleep to recharge and unwind.
Patience – Children need time to learn new skills and develop their abilities.
Emotional regulation – Help children regulate their feelings and emotions.
Listen – Listen to children and have deep meaningful conversations.
Environment – Children need a secure and positive environment to grow and develop.
Limited Technology – Children need time away from technology and television to support healthy brain activity.
Seek professional advice – If you are concerned about your child’s mental health or of a child you work with, seek advice from a health professional as soon as possible.
For more information and support please visit www.mind.org.uk
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