Not to step on Aslan’s toes here, but it truly is a crazy world out there, and one thing I want to try to do as a parent is raise a resilient little person.
Resilience equips kids with the tools they need to bounce back from challenges, navigate setbacks, and thrive in the face of problems they come to face.
A study conducted by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) revealed that 78% of Irish parents believe that resilience is a critical skill for their children’s future success. The same study indicated that 47% of parents worry about their children’s ability to handle difficult situations. I’m definitely in that 47%.
There are a few ways that various experts say you can build that backbone and problem-solving ability in your little ones:
Get them to solve small scale problems
Provide opportunities for your child to tackle problems independently. This fosters a sense of capability and resourcefulness.
Make sure they’re not worried about their mistakes
Teach your child that mistakes are natural and offer valuable learning experiences. Create an environment where failures are seen as okay, and as stepping stones to growth.
Chats, chats and more chats
Maintain an open dialogue where your child feels comfortable discussing their emotions and concerns. This helps them process difficult feelings and develop emotional intelligence.
Be it so they can see it
Demonstrate how to handle challenges by sharing your experiences and showing optimism in the face of issues of your own.
Build a loving support network
Surround your child with a strong support network of family, friends, and mentors who provide encouragement and guidance.
Little risks allowed
Allow your child to take calculated risks in a safe environment. This builds confidence and adaptability.
Hopefully with these tools, and by giving your children the mental and emotional tools to navigate life’s ups and downs, you can ensure they emerge stronger and more adaptable in the face of any challenge that crops up for them.
READ MORE
-
Parenting expert claims just 4 words will completely change how you parent
-
Why your reaction matters most in these three parenting scenarios
-
Parenting expert shares top three tips for breaking up your kids fights
-
5 signs that you’re doing a great job as a parent
