Advice For Parents
Does your child seem more worried than usual?
Have you noticed their moods getting worse?
Has their behaviour become more challenging?
Are you looking for ways to help them?
If the answer is "yes" to any, or all, of those questions, you are not alone! And simply by being here, you are starting to make positive changes. Whilst MIND ready set go is currently offering committed and comprehensive services to children and young people at home or at school, below are some tips which you might find useful.
The Importance of You
MIND ready set go understands and values your role in your children's lives. We want to work with you and you are encouraged to take an interest in your child's wellbeing and to contribute to session content wherever possible.Your relationship with your child is your greatest asset. Trust your instinct, there's a lot to be said for it.
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It is also essential that you look after yourselves; we cannot be a positive presence in our children's lives if we are not looking after our own wellbeing. Try not to be too hard on yourselves when it comes to your child's mental health and be sure to seek your own support. If you need further guidance, please contact us here.
Helpful hints
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You cannot force your children to talk to you about their mental health and wellbeing. Let them know they can talk to you without judgement especially if there is something they are struggling with. That being said, talking about good things is just as important as talking about difficult things. If you want to approach them, ask open questions (such as "what has been the most interesting part of your day?" or "what has really made you sparkle/shine recently?").
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If your child does come to you with an issue, listen (make sure you are really available to them and not distracted) and show appreciation for how difficult they might have found it. It is vital not to criticise your children's thoughts and feelings, as this can increase feelings of low self-worth. It's okay not to have all of the answers; offer to support them in finding a solution they are comfortable with - resist the temptation to want to fix everything for them.
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It's important not to shy away from difficult conversations; mental health is something we all have and you could try talking honestly with your children (age appropriate) about your own thoughts and feelings - it's a good way of opening the channels of communication and demonstrates to them that its okay not to be okay some of the time. Remember to make the most of opportunities together, such as the school run or mealtimes, and focus as much as possible on the positive.