As a loving parent, you want to do all you can to ensure your children are happy and healthy. Teaching your little ones to embrace self-care early on can help them learn the importance of prioritizing their own mental and physical well-being. Self-care for kids looks a little different than it does for adults. This guide from PuckerMomprovides some pointers on child-friendly ways to get your kids into self-care.
Get Kids into Exercise
Exercise is good for people of all ages, kids included. Getting little ones into physical activity while they’re younger will help them bring this healthy habit into their adult years. Mom Junction provides a roundup of exercises children can do, from push-ups to planks and crunches. You can intersperse these kinds of activities with fun stuff like dancing and playing tag. The point is to teach kids that exercise can be a fun form of self-care.
Encourage Little Ones to Embrace the Arts
A creative pursuit can be a wonderful way for kids to release their emotions in a healthy and productive way. Creative hobbies like painting are also a form of self-care, allowing people to explore and express their feelings. A creative hobby for kids also has other benefits, like teaching problem-solving, improving self-esteem, and fine-tuning concentration. For younger kids, a creative pursuit can help with practical matters like motor skills.
Spend More Time Outdoors Together
Research has shown that spending time outside can improve mental health. Teach your kids to enjoy nature as a form of self care by taking them to beautiful outdoor areas. Find destinations where you can enjoy everything from picnics in the park to boating on the lake. Many areas in the UK offer plenty of other outdoor activities, too, like swimming and fishing. Take advantage of robust offerings with an extended trip.
Invest in Quality
Investing in high-quality home products for self-care is a worthwhile endeavor for both you and your children. These products can contribute significantly to your overall well-being, comfort, and relaxation at home. From skincare items to wellness gadgets, they often prove their value over time. However, before making any purchase, it’s crucial to consult online reviews first. They offer real insights from other consumers, which can guide you toward the best choices in the market. Remember, your investment in self-care products is an investment in your family’s health and happiness.
Make Your Home a Healthy Haven
We can’t control the energy we encounter out in the world, but we can control our living spaces. If the kids seem to be bickering more or things just feel tense, consider decluttering and cleaning using a naturopathic remedy to reset the energy in your home. Keeping clutter to a minimum will also help reduce anxiety and bad moods. And make every bedroom a personal haven — some personalized options for bedding can make a big difference.
Set a Positive Example
As a parent, it’s on you to set a great example for your kids. This also applies when it comes to self-care. Show your little ones that self-care matters by making time for yourself—and for quality time with them. When the busy work season hits, make sure you’re still prioritizing kids and making time for them. This could mean making sure you’re there for bedtime every night, doing simple chores together, or planning family-friendly events together.
Teach Self-Soothing Techniques
Kids can get frustrated for various reasons, from problems with friends to struggles with schoolwork. When they get stressed, it’s essential that they have a toolkit of self-soothing techniques to turn to. Understood provides some tips on how to teach your little one to self-soothe, from deep breathing to squeezing a stress ball. Even taking a calming bath can do a lot for their mental well-being. These are habits that kids can carry into their later years.
Don’t be Afraid to Seek External Help
Sometimes kids may struggle with mental health issues like anxiety and depression. When this happens, get professional help for your little one. Apps and online therapy are secure ways to connect kids with a qualified mental health expert. When selecting a therapist for your child, make sure they’re a good match. Many experts offer free consultations to ensure they’re the right fit. Online therapy is more convenient, as it can be done from home and cheaper.
Instil Self-Care as a Value for Kids
Self-care is just as important for kids as adults. The above guide provides some ideas for how you can teach your little one the value of self-care at a young age. Putting in the time and effort to master these habits now can help them feel happier later.
