World Mental Health Day: Boost emotional intelligence in children with these useful tips

Sitendra Sehrawat, social entrepreneur and meditation guide who helps individuals deal with loneliness, explains, “Lack of attention to children’s emotional and social well-being can lead to misconceptions about themselves and the world. Children should be taught that emotions like stress, anxiety, fear, and courage are natural mechanisms to help them survive life. “Emotional development, just like academics, should continue and be integrated into their education.”

School’s responsibility in shaping mental health

Can we depend only on schools for the mental well-being of children? Sehrawat answers, “It is not enough to depend on schools alone for overall development – ​​it requires a collaborative effort of parents, schools and the child’s environment. Building a strong foundation of emotional awareness and self-awareness is essential for children to become well-rounded individuals. Teach them to live simply and enjoy life. Let them explore and have fun, enhancing their emotional and intellectual development.” Emotional training cannot be postponed until problems arise, and fostering a child’s emotional intelligence must begin early, in ways that support their Match the stage of development. (Also read: More than a dozen US states have sued TikTok, claiming it is designed to make children addicted and harm their mental health,

Outdoor activities promote children’s health

The idea of ​​encouraging outdoor activities and being with nature is to inspire and ignite the child’s physical and mental potential. Apart from helping the child enjoy and relax it also provides a great option for a digital detox. “ Outdoor activities have direct mental and physical benefits for a child and are an essential part of growing up. Furthermore, a child is also able to enhance his social learning by better following etiquette and interaction during outdoor play. Allowing them to have access to a judgment-free safe zone to express their feelings and sensitivities will also help them control emotions and feelings better,” advises Dr Kedar Tilve, consultant psychiatrist, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi. Let’s give.

Engaging children in outdoor activities helps them form positive insights about the world. If they have fun outside, they associate the world with happiness. According to Sehrawat, “Lack of outside experiences can limit their curiosity and engagement. It also promotes cooperation with other children, interaction with animals and a deeper connection with nature. This connection brings spontaneity and comfort, which all humans naturally feel, even from a young age.

Finding Healthy Ways for Students to Express Emotions

You can’t force someone to tell you their feelings; They need to feel safe and relaxed in a cordial environment. “Children often open up more easily with other children, but adults must work harder to build trust. As children grow up, they begin to evaluate whether they feel safe sharing with adults such as teachers. To encourage openness, it is important to create a non-threatening environment, free of fear or repression. Sehrawat believes that making children laugh and have fun is a great way to overcome obstacles.

influence of social media

An important skill to develop in children is how to use social media safely and responsibly. “This could include showing them how to take the ‘feed’ on social media seriously and avoid doom scrolling, as well as putting safety measures in place to ensure they are aware of any online scams or threats. Don’t be sensitive. Helping children create a playlist and discussing the content they watch will also be beneficial,” advises Dr. Tilway. Developing the habit of using healthy mechanisms to deal with perceived stressors as well as helping them learn essential life skills will help build better mental hygiene.