With all the buzz around mental health, how come very few people are talking about children’s mental health? If you think it’s just adults that deal with mental health issues, I’m here to burst your bubble because children also deal with mental health issues. While the summer is a fantastic time for children to unwind, have fun, and recharge, it can also affect their mental health negatively or positively, depending on how you handle it. Here are seven easy-to-follow tips to boost your child’s mental health this summer:
- Encourage Outdoor Play
One of the best things about summer is the opportunity to get outside and be active. Physical activity is not only great for your child’s health but also has a huge impact on their mood and mental well-being. When children play outside, they release endorphins—those feel-good hormones that help reduce stress and boost their overall happiness.
- Establish a Summer Routine
Even though summer often means a break from school, having a routine can be really helpful for your child’s mental health. A consistent routine helps children understand what to expect each day and can reduce feelings of uncertainty or anxiety. It also makes transitions between activities smoother and helps maintain a sense of balance.
Outline a daily routine that includes time for chores, leisure, and relaxation. This could be a simple checklist of morning activities, playtime, and winding down before bed. Try to stick to regular bedtime routines even during the summer. A consistent sleep schedule helps maintain your child's overall well-being and keeps them refreshed for the day ahead.
- Foster Creative Outlets
Creativity is a wonderful way for children to express themselves and manage their emotions. Engaging in creative activities can be a great stress-reliever and boost their self-esteem as they see their ideas come to life. Creative outlets like drawing, painting, or crafting help children channel their feelings and build problem-solving skills. You can also bake together or do DIY projects with them.
- Promote Healthy Eating and Hydration
I might not be Aproko doctor, but I know that with all the energy your child would spend jumping around this summer, staying hydrated is very important. Eating well and staying hydrated can significantly impact your child's mood, energy levels, and overall health. A balanced diet helps them feel their best and supports their mental and physical development. Make fruits and veggies a regular part of meals and snacks.
- Spend Quality Family Time
Summer is the perfect time to strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories. Engaging in family activities helps build strong relationships, provides emotional support, and creates a sense of belonging. Schedule regular family outings like picnics, beach trips, or visits to local attractions. You can also have evenings each week for board games, card games, or movie nights together. These adventures can be exciting and offer opportunities for learning and exploration.
- Teach Relaxation Techniques
Summer can be a busy and exciting time, which sometimes means children might feel a bit overwhelmed. Teaching your child simple relaxation techniques can help them manage stress and find calm moments amidst all the fun. Teach your child how to take slow, deep breaths to calm their mind. Make it fun by using breathing exercises like pretending to blow up a big balloon.
- Encourage Social Connections
As a child, we always looked forward to the summer because we would go stay over at our favourite uncle or aunt’s place and get to play with our nieces or cousins. Spending time with friends and meeting new people can be both fun and help children develop social skills, build self-esteem, and feel a sense of belonging. Apart from being with friends and family, encourage your child to also join summer camps, clubs, or sports teams where they can meet new friends and explore their interests. In all of these, ensure that you have safety strategies to ensure that your child is not exposed to any form of harm.
These practical tips are easy to integrate into your daily life and can make a big difference in how your child feels and grows. Remember, the goal is to create a supportive and enjoyable environment where your child can relax, explore, and connect with others this summer.
