Resilient kids are emotionally healthier, have stronger relationships and are more likely to achieve their goals. To raise strong, independent and resilient kids, below are some tips to try.
Forster a growth mindset.
Teach your children that they can develop their abilities through hard work and determination that way when they encounter problems and setbacks they will see them as opportunities.
Embrace failure
Failure is a part of life and can be a teacher sometimes. Discuss what went wrong with your children, see what to learn from it and how to move forward from it. Do not shield them from failing and when they fail at something do not punish them.
Give them unconditional love and support.
Love from parents/ caregivers is a strong foundation to resilience. Let your children know that no matter what you are there for them and nothing will make you love them less. This gives them a secure base to navigate life from.
Set realistic expectations.
Unrealistic goals lead to stress and disappointment. Teach your children to set achievable goals, teach them how to break down large goals to smaller achievable ones and celebrate each milestone along the way.
Instill problem solving skills.
Teach your children to face problems head on, brainstorm possible solutions and evaluate the outcome. This makes them see opportunities in the problems. Resilient kinds are skilled problem solvers.
Develop emotional intelligence.
Openly discuss feelings and provide a safe space to express themselves. Assist them to recognize and manage their emotions and accommodate other people’s feelings and emotions how to empathize but not carry.
Encourage independence.
Teach your children how to take reasonable risks and make decisions by themselves. Experiencing the consequences of their choices makes them learn important lessons and gives them confidence to face life.
Instill self-acceptance.
Teach your kids how to be comfortable in their own skin. Let them understand that people are different and their uniqueness make them strong. It’s the different races, body sizes and shapes that makes the word a beautiful place. This make them handle bullies better, not shame others and help the bullied/ shamed.
Teach them respect.
Resilient children respect other people, they know and understand their worth. If they respect themselves, they won’t allow people to walk all over them and they will not walk all over other people no matter the circumstances.
Note that resilience is a skill to be nurtured and developed. It’s not a static trait. It’s a consistent journey that requires patience and empathy. It’s a gift that prepares children for life adversities and how to lead fulfilling, successful lives. It’s a fundamental role for the caregivers/parents to help children thrive in this rapidly evolving word.