Self-care is an art that should be taught to all people of all ages. What this means for us as a parent is that we should constantly find ways to promote and teach self-care to our children.
Do you know that children have moments when they are stressed too? Stressed out about school, about home, about their siblings, about that kid in school who does not like them? Etc. This stress can affect how a child performs at school and even their overall moods.
But being under stress is a normal occurrence, and we should know how to navigate through it. The tactics that your children learn from a young age will come in handy when they are adults.
Your children need ME time too. Self-care for your kids can greatly reduce mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. As it has been said; the earlier one learns about something in life, the greater the chances one will not depart from it when they become an adult.
How can you promote self-care in your child/ren?
1. Start with the basics: Teach them the importance of brushing their teeth, keeping their rooms tidy, keeping their hair neat. Teach them how to perform basic self-care routines that will leave them feeling good.
2. Take care of their mind. Let your kids take a break from the screen. Other than the fact that they can watch something inappropriate, too much screen time means less play time. Your kids need to play, explore, feel things as this is how they learn and stay in touch with the world.
3. Teach the importance of physical exercise. You could even have a dance workout session with them several times a week.
4. Talk about emotions. Part of what is eating our men is the popular “men don’t cry” notion. Men are supposed to be “macho” and deal with their problems without reaching out for help. What that has resulted in, is some men who are severely suicidal. Talk to your kids about their emotions and what they mean. Let them be in touch with themselves, discover their weak points and strengths. Through this, the children get to know how to explore solutions for the challenges they face.
5. Remember when your mother saw you relax and gave you a ridiculous task to do just so that you get busy? Well, do not do that with your child. Allow for moments of downtime. Often, the best self-care is doing absolutely nothing. It is okay to take some time off to slow down a busy day and to gain perspective.
6. Spend time together and get outdoors. We all love a beautiful serene view. It helps the mind cool down and the fresh air is highly welcome. Purpose to spend time together outside as you bond with your kiddos.
When you promote self-care for your children, you are setting them up for an adulthood where they can prioritize family, have better diet habits, and know how to explore mental health issues.
Enroll your child to the Nawiri Champs Empowerment Workshop to learn how they can promote self-care.
Where: Zoom
When: 29th, 30th, 31st of March
Time: 9-10.30am(7-9yrs), 11-12.30am(10-12yrs)
Investment: sh 500 per day
