By This is essential because it saves the kids from unhealthy effects of stress later
Resilience encompasses more than just bouncing back from adversities; it reflects the ability of an individual (or an economy or nature) to manage change and still flourish. Despite challenges and disruptions to the order in our everyday lives, when one can accommodate (change), alleviate (discomfort), and transition from acceptance to adaptation and from adaptation to innovation, resilience in its truest form is demonstrated, fostering numerous positive outcomes, including mental health.
Building resilience at an early age protects children and youngsters against the unhealthy effects of stress and anxiety, teaching them to cope by relying on their own capacity and confidence. By prioritizing mental health from childhood, individuals develop essential skills and coping mechanisms to navigate life’s challenges effectively.
Recognizing character, rewarding competence, and building confidence
When we see a child doing what is right instead of what is easy, we must acknowledge this choice that they are making; it shows a great moral compass and is the foundation for a stable/secure adulthood. As long as they display an aptitude for something in particular (a skill, a sport, etc), we must encourage them by providing them with the opportunity to develop those skills further. When we set age-appropriate tasks for them and they achieve it, it automatically increases their self-belief. The stronger their self-belief, the greater their ability to manage distress.
Fostering camaraderie and connections
Close ties to family, friends, and even social groups in schools make children feel belong and instill a sense of security. Being a part of a group and inculcating a habit of interdependence, encouraging friendship and dependability, allows children to understand and realize that they are not alone in their struggles and they can help one another when in need.
Helping children understand what they can and cannot control
Who doesn’t like to feel in control of events and situations? This is especially true for children and youth who struggle with emotional regulation when they realize they cannot control or influence their environment most of the time. However, we can teach them early on that they can control the choices they make, their decisions, and actions.. This helps them realize that they have it in them to not let something affect them more than it should and they can bounce back from disappointments.
Encouraging group activity/peer support and volunteering
Children must be taught to look beyond their own lives. Volunteering also allows them to feel good about themselves when they can use their skills and services to help someone who may not return the favour.When we teach them to offer help and support wherever they can, in whatever way they can, it becomes easier for them to reach out when they need help themselves.. Knowing that life is not a straight road, but travelling together makes it much easier to navigate encourages them to ask for help, which is a huge part of being resilient.
Building resilience at an early age protects children and youngsters against the unhealthy effects of stress and anxiety, teaching them to cope by relying on their own capacity and confidence.
