6 Tips for Raising Mentally Strong Kids
As parents, we want to raise our children to be prepared for all the challenges that the world will put in front of them. We want them to be strong enough to cope with hardships, bounce back from failure, and tackle their problems. Being mentally healthy is not about suppressing emotions and acting fierce and defiant. It is about having confidence and courage to reach our full potential. Let’s take a look at some teaching tools and parenting strategies you can use to help your kids develop mental strength.
Let them make mistakes
Everything you see in the world around you, people created by using one tool – the mistake. Mistakes are a natural part of our learning process, so you should explain to them that they shouldn’t feel embarrassed or ashamed about getting something wrong. Allow for consequences when it is safe to do so, help them learn from the situation, and talk about how they can avoid repeating the same mistake.
Encourage your children to face their fears
Children tend to avoid things that scare them. But if they continue to do so, they’ll never gain the confidence they need to handle feeling uncomfortable. Whether they are afraid of meeting new people or terrified of the dark, help them face their fears. Take one small step at a time by praising their efforts, cheering them on, and rewarding them for being brave. Eventually, they will learn that they’re capable of venturing outside their comfort zone.
Make them do chores
Children need to learn that they can’t get anything in life without work. By making them do tasks, such as doing the dishes, mowing the lawn, or taking out the garbage, they will realize this vital life lesson and learn to take personal responsibility. Also, you should be careful to create a world where your child doesn’t feel strangled by authority but grows with respect for it.
Teach them specific skills
Discipline is not about making your kids suffer for their mistakes but instead teaching them to do better next time. Let them face the consequences, and use them to teach specific skills, such as self-discipline, impulse control, and problem-solving skills. These are the skills that will help your kids behave productively even when faced with severe setbacks, tough circumstances, and temptation.
Build their character
Parents need to work hard to instill the true values in their children. To make healthy decisions, kids need a strong moral compass, so create various opportunities for valuable life lessons that will reinforce your values. For example, instead of teaching them to win at all costs, emphasize the importance of compassion and honesty. Children will be more likely to make healthy choices if they understand their values, even if others disagree with their actions.
Teach them about healthy self-talk
If children are predicting only catastrophic outcomes or bombarding themselves with put-downs, it is hard for them to feel mentally strong. Teach them to think more realistically by reframing their negative thoughts. Your kids will be able to perform at their peak and get through tough times with a realistic yet optimistic outlook on life.
Setbacks, hardship, and challenges are inevitable, and teaching your children to build their mental strength will make them resilient. Inspyr Gear is here to help your kids remember never to quit and believe in themselves. A motivated and healthy child is destined for success!