Raising emotionally resilient children helps them to navigate challenges, manage stress, and build confidence. Emotional resilience doesn’t mean shielding children from difficulties but teaching them how to bounce back and grow from experiences. We wanted to share with you some tips and activities that can help support children to become emotionally resilient.
Encourage Open Communication
Model Resilient Behaviour
Teach Problem-Solving Skills
Build a Strong Support Network
Help Them Develop a Growth Mindset
Encourage Independence and Responsibility
Celebrate Effort and Resilience
Activities for home that help support a child’s mental health.
Creative Arts and Crafts: Encourage children to express themselves through drawing, painting, or crafting. This not only boosts creativity but also helps them articulate emotions they might not be able to put into words.
Mindfulness and Yoga: Introduce simple yoga poses and mindfulness exercises to help children learn how to manage stress and improve focus. There are many kid-friendly yoga videos available online that make the practice fun and engaging. You can join them to make it a family activity.
Gardening: Whether it’s a small indoor plant or a backyard garden, caring for plants teaches responsibility and patience. It also provides a sense of accomplishment as they watch their efforts grow and flourish.
Reading Together: Set aside time each day for reading. Reading together not only enhances literacy skills but also fosters a strong emotional bond and stimulates imagination.
Cooking or Baking: Involve children in the kitchen by letting them help with simple recipes. This activity can boost their confidence, teach them about nutrition, and provide a sense of achievement when they see the final product. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to enjoy some quality time together.
Resources
Here are some resources you may find helpful to use within your home and daily life:
My Feeling poster – https://springchildcare.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/My-Feelings-Poster.pdf
Emotion Flashcards – https://springchildcare.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Emotion-flashcards.pdf
Mt Kindness Chart – https://springchildcare.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/My-Kindness-Chart.pdf
Building emotional resilience is an ongoing process that requires patience, love, and consistency. By teaching your child how to understand and manage their emotions, you’re giving them the tools they need to face life’s challenges with confidence and optimism. Resilient children grow into resilient adults, capable of leading fulfilling and balanced lives.
For more support please visit Parent Talk – Support for Parents from Action For Children where you can gain down-to-earth parenting advice you can trust.