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CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH TIPS: YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

You asked, Josh Smith answered - with a little help from the experts at children’s mental health charity, Place2Be. Shining a spotlight on children’s mental health, Place2Be is an invaluable resource for parents and children, providing mental health support and counselling for those in need.

The charity is close to presenter and journalist Josh’s heart, after he experienced his own mental health challenges when growing up. At the time, he didn’t have the language to describe how he was feeling, and he has become a proud Place2Be ambassador to advocate for children facing similar experiences, helping them find their voices. If you want to find out more about supporting your child’s mental health, Josh’s advice is a good place to start.

My 7-year-old child is being bullied for wearing certain clothes they enjoy. What can I do to support them?

It’s understandable that parents are concerned about bullying but it’s important to stay calm, listen and try to understand your child’s experience to support them. Speak to the school so that they’re aware and can take action to ensure the bullying is dealt with and your child is safe. Focus on building resilience in your child and help them find healthy coping strategies.

My 9-year-old son seems to have lost interest in his friends and hobbies. I’m worried that he might hurt himself and become socially isolated. What should I do?

There are many reasons why your child may be worried. Try and start up a conversation with him to understand what he’s feeling. Mention that you’ve noticed a change, create space to connect and listen and don’t pressure your child to talk. Be open and curious about what might be behind his behaviour and make time for fun together. Join in with his games or plan something special to do together. Speak to the school and your GP if you remain concerned.

Do you have tips on how to support my 8-year-old struggling after a divorce?

This is such a common problem. Many parents will separate at some point in their children’s life but with the right support with both parents, children are able to thrive despite the change in the family set up. Make sure you never put your child in the middle of your relationship. Unless it is unsafe, make it easy for them to stay connected with your ex. Find time and space to listen to your child which is always so important. Finally, once you are separated try and work as a team with your co-parent.

How can I support my child’s mental health in general?

Acknowledge their difficulties and struggles, be there to listen and normalise that it’s okay for them to talk about how they’re coping with things. Encourage your children to express themselves in a variety of ways, be that art, games, journals, whatever helps with their self-expression. Let children know who they can go to if they need to talk about how they feel including other family members and school especially if they work with Place2Be. If you’re still worried, seek help from your GP, someone at your child’s school or confide in a close friend.

My daughter is extremely shy. How can I help her become more confident and find her voice?

Believe it or not, I was very shy and socially awkward as a child. My advice is to try and not to say things like, ‘oh, she’s just shy’ because labelling your child that way will make it harder for them to change the way they act. Be understanding and curious about what’s behind your child’s behaviour. Try saying, ‘I’ve noticed that when we meet X, you go really quiet, and I wondered if something was wrong?’ Be kind and patient which we all know is difficult at times. Make it clear that you expect your child to communicate but don’t step in and do it for them.

I hope these tips were helpful but if you need more help, go to Place2Be’s new website to find out more. Remember whatever happens, you’re never alone. There’s always someone out there who has gone or is going through a similar thing to you so talking openly really does help.

We’ve created three activity sheets to boost your little one’s creativity and mindfulness skills.

Download Dress to Express Colouring Sheet

Download our Positive Affirmations Colour Sheet

Download our Positivity Reward Chart