Killingholme Primary School

Parents play a crucial role in supporting their child’s mental health. Here are a few practical ways they can help:
1. Create a Safe and Open Environment: Encourage open communication by making sure your child feels comfortable expressing their feelings. Listen actively and without judgment.
2. Be Supportive and Present: Spend quality time with your child. Engaging in activities together, like reading, playing, or simply talking, shows them they are valued and loved.
3. Promote Healthy Routines: A balanced routine that includes regular sleep, nutritious meals, physical activity, and downtime can make a huge difference in a child’s mental well-being.
4. Validate Their Feelings: It’s important to acknowledge and validate their emotions, whether they’re happy, sad, or anxious. Showing empathy can help them feel understood.
5. Encourage Positive Self-Esteem: Help them develop a strong sense of self-worth by praising their efforts, not just their achievements, and teaching them to handle mistakes with resilience.
6. Model Coping Strategies: Children learn by example, so showing healthy ways to manage stress, like deep breathing, mindfulness, or problem-solving, can give them tools for their own emotional regulation.
7. Keep an Eye on Behavioral Changes: Sudden shifts in behavior (withdrawal, anger, or trouble concentrating) could signal mental health struggles. If you notice these signs, consider seeking professional help.
8. Be Involved in Their School Life: Stay connected with teachers and support staff, so you can stay informed about your child’s experiences at school and offer support where needed. Try and support your child to pick out a postive part of the day to focus on.