A Suffolk-based charity is urging families to prioritize children’s mental health during the festive season, offering practical tips to reduce stress and promote emotional well-being.
Suffolk Mind’s Children, Family, and Young People’s (CFYP) team has emphasized the significance of addressing children’s 12 physical and emotional needs to help manage common holiday challenges like stress and anger.
Five Core Focus Areas
The charity has identified five key areas to support children’s mental health during the holiday period:
Maintaining Healthy Sleep Patterns
Adequate sleep is essential for both physical and mental health. Suffolk Mind advises parents to keep bedtime routines as close to normal as possible, even amidst the excitement of the season.
Encouraging Movement and Balanced Nutrition
While indulging in Christmas treats is part of the celebration, the charity recommends incorporating physical activities, such as walking, park visits, or decorating the house, to help children stay active and burn off extra energy.
Fostering Attention and Emotional Connection
Spending quality time with children is vital for emotional well-being. Activities like baking, playing board games, or watching holiday films together can strengthen familial bonds.
Respecting Privacy and Personal Space
Suffolk Mind underscores the importance of giving children space to unwind. Allowing them time alone to enjoy their presents or simply relax can be beneficial for their mental health.
Providing Control and Security
Helping children feel secure by discussing upcoming holiday events in advance can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed. Clear communication about plans fosters a sense of control and predictability.
Expert Insights
Louise Taylor-Harris, service manager for Suffolk Mind’s CFYP team, highlighted the unique challenges the holiday season can pose for children.
“While Christmas is a time for fun and positivity, it’s crucial to take care of emotional needs, especially for children,” Taylor-Harris explained. “A big part of this involves managing changes to their normal routine and addressing the uncertainty that comes with a busy holiday schedule.”
Taylor-Harris also stressed that these strategies are just as applicable to parents and caregivers.
“Any parent knows how difficult it can be to focus on themselves during Christmas with so much going on,” she added. “But taking time to meet your own physical and emotional needs is essential.”
By following these simple but effective steps, families can ensure a more joyful and stress-free holiday season while supporting the mental health of everyone involved.
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