3 things we can do to help our children build resilience and self-awareness

This is an article I've written for Talk Education in support of the 'Know yourself, Grow yourself' theme of Place2Be's Children's Mental Health Week.   

The latest research tells us that one in five children and young people have a probable mental health condition and that 50 percent of all mental health conditions develop before the age of 14.   

Early intervention is so important if we're to improve and reverse this devastating trend.  Place2Be is a pioneer in early intervention with it's successful work in schools and as parents and caregivers we have our own important role to play.

When children feel listened to, supported and understood by a reliable presence in their lives they're more likely to develop the self awareness to tune into how they're feeling, express their emotions and explore coping strategies that feel comfortable for them.

In this article I share three strategies that parents can use to help build our children's self-awareness and our relationship :

1. Emotion Coaching to help children understand and manage feelings.

2. Curiosity for self discovery and growth

3. Connection to build strong and supportive relationships.

Let's start with why curiosity is your parenting superpower:

Curiosity reminds us to slow down and listen

Curiosity helps us dig a little deeper and learn how our children experience the world

Curiosity is the first step towards empathy

Curiosity helps us become a pro at asking open ended questions

Curiosity provides a tiny moment that reflects our genuine interest, building trust and connection

Curiosity helps us remember that resilience looks different for each of us.

Curiosity teaches that mistakes are learning opportunities

Curiosity models for our children self-reflection, problem solving and empathy. 

Curious?   Read on for the lots of practical ideas to build you child's self-awareness and trust.