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Helping Children Grow Up HealthyMind and Body
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Parents It is easy for parents to identify a childs physical needsnutritious and balanced meals; adequate shelter and clothing; sufficient rest and physical activity; immunizations; and a healthy living environment. However, a childs mental and emotional needs may not be as obvious. Good mental health allows children to think clearly, develop socially, learn new skills, build self-esteem, and develop a positive mental outlook. These are the basics for a childs good mental health: Give children unconditional love. Children need to know that your love does not depend on their accomplishments. Nurture childrens confidence and self-esteem. Praise and encourage them. Set realistic goals for them. Be honest about your mistakes. Avoid sarcasm. Encourage children to play. Play time is as important to a childs development as food. Play helps children be creative, develop problem-solving skills and self-control, and learn how to get along with others. Enroll children in an after school activity, especially if they are otherwise home alone after school. This is a great way for kids to stay productive, learn something new, gain self-esteem and have something to look forward to during the week. Or check in on children after school if they are home alone. Children need to know that even if youre not there physically, youre thinking about them, and interested in how they spent their day and how theyll spend the rest of it. Provide a safe and secure environment. Fear can be very real for a child. Try to find out what is frightening him or her. Be loving, patient and reassuring, not critical. Give appropriate guidance and discipline when necessary. Be firm, but kind and realistic with your expectations. The goal is not to control the child, but to help him or her learn self-control. Communicate. Make time each day after work and school to listen to your children and talk with them about what is happening in their lives. Share emotions and feelings with your children. Get help. If youre concerned about your childs mental health, consult with teachers, a guidance counselor or another adult who may have information about his or her behavior. If you think there is a problem, seek professional help. Early identification and treatment can help children with mental health problems reach their full potential. To learn more, contact National Mental Health Association at 800-969-NMHA(6642), or visit www.nmha.org. This message is brought to you as part of the Healthy Minds/Healthy Bodies educational campaign sponsored by Gage County Coalition PATCH/Healthy Lifestyles Task Force, Blue Valley Mental Health Center, Beatrice Community Hospital, and Gage County Safe Schools/Healthy Students. For further information and resources, contact Sharon Langvardt, MS, LCMFT, Blue Valley Mental Health Center, (402) 228-3386 or bluevalley@alltel.net Good luck, and thank you for spreading the MIND Your Health message this May!
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