As parents, we wish we could protect our kids from ever getting hurt, failing, or facing challenges. But the truth is, life gets hard sometimes, even for children. When everything seems to be going wrong, it can be tough for kids to stay hopeful and positive.
So what can we do to help our kids become more resilient? Resilient means being able to recover or “bounce back” after going through hard stuff. The good news is there are lots of ways we can teach our children skills to cope with stress and adversity. Let’s look at 10 great tips to build up resilience in your child and methods of Teaching Children for Resiliency.
Stay Positive
Having a positive attitude can make a huge difference in how kids deal with problems. We can teach them to look for the silver lining and find the good in tough situations. Share uplifting stories of people who overcame huge obstacles. Show optimism through your own outlook. Help them see the glass as half full.
Aim for Progress, Not Perfection
Often we feel like we have to do everything 100% right. But holding ourselves to impossibly high standards just adds extra pressure. Help your child set realistic goals and focus on gradual improvement, not perfection. Celebrate small wins and moments of learning as you go. Progress takes time, effort, and patience. The journey can be just as rewarding as the final destination.
Take Care of Your Mind and Body
Taking good care of ourselves equips us to handle stress better. Make sure your child gets enough zzz’s, nutrition, and exercise. Teach them the power of self-care habits like talking with friends, relaxing hobbies, writing in a journal, or quiet time. Making self-care a priority is an investment in resilience.
Encourage Problem Solving
Instead of always fixing every struggle for kids, guide them to come up with solutions. Break big problems into smaller pieces. Ask what has or hasn’t worked before. Remind them it’s okay to get help from others when needed. Developing these skills helps build confidence.
All Feelings Are Okay
Experiencing disappointment, anger, sadness and other hard feelings is normal. Validate your child’s emotions and show that all feelings are okay.
Help them express emotions through writing, art, and talking it out. Share how you deal with difficult feelings as a role model.
Look on the Bright Side
Having a positive outlook starts with noticing the good around us, even on bad days. Share specific things you feel grateful for daily like friends, nature, favorite foods. Ask kids what they appreciate. Write thank you notes to uplift others. Savor the little joys and blessings in each day.
Use Your Support Team
We all need cheerleaders when times get rough. Help your child make connections with positive peers and mentors. Set an example by asking your own support network for guidance. Show kids the power of leaning on others when resilience feels out of reach.
Learn from Mistakes
Setbacks happen to everyone and can teach us a lot. Reframe mistakes and failures as chances to grow, rather than something to feel ashamed about. When they mess up, avoid criticism. Ask “What did you learn? How could you try differently next time?” Failing forward builds character.
This Too Shall Pass
When a big crisis strikes, it’s important to remember that the intense feelings won’t last forever. Remind kids that even if things feel “stuck,” it won’t always be that way. Offer lots of understanding and comfort in the moment. Patience and hope can help us get through the hardest times.
Take it lightly
Learn to laugh at your mistakes and take things lighty. Even when the times are tough try to see a comedy movie or read a comic to lighten your mood.
The ability to laugh at your mistakes and see positives in every situation is what makes you different from others.
Conclusion
By taking these small but powerful steps, we can raise kids who are better able to cope when tough times strike. Their wellbeing and future starts with teaching resilience one day at a time. We’re in this together, parents. With patience and support, our kids can learn to bounce back from anything life throws their way.
