Children Advice

This advice on how to help children thrive is from Dr. Rebecca Jackson author of Back on Track.

• Set homework expectations based on attention span and not based on the amount of homework or their age and grade level. This will set you all up for greater success!
  • If your child can focus for 15 minutes at a time, and homework requires an hour, plan for it! This will require you to either join your child in supporting their attention limits and working beyond the first 15 minutes or breaking the homework up into chunks.
• Create a routine of structure and support.
  • Choose a night to sit down and review the school portal together to review what is coming up – keep the interaction positive and create a plan for the week. The goal is for your children to feel supported.
  • Next help support the plan with gentle reminders and guidance where needed.
• Set goals. Each new year is a fresh start, and while it’s easy to start with high hopes and big plans for success, staying consistent in working towards those goals throughout the year requires continuing attention.
  • Ask your children to write down three goals for the year that are their individual goals (not your goals for them).
    • Break the goals down into smaller parts to talk about what needs to be done each week and day to achieve those goals.
    • Periodically revisit the goals to monitor progress and make supportive changes.
  • As a parent, write down three ways you will support your children in achieving their goals (e.g., monitor progress, praise achievement, adjust expectations).
  • Post the goals someplace visible as a reminder to keep everyone on track for success!

Helping children thrive involves creating a nurturing and supportive environment that promotes their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development. Here are some additional ways to help children thrive:

1. Unconditional Love and Support: Children need to feel loved, accepted, and valued for who they are. Offer them emotional support, hugs, and reassurance to build a strong sense of security.
2. Healthy Relationships: Model positive relationships within the family and with others. Healthy relationships provide children with a foundation for forming their own relationships in the future.
3. Stable Environment: Provide a stable and consistent home environment. Predictable routines and clear boundaries help children feel safe and secure.
4. Nutrition and Physical Health: Ensure they have a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Encourage physical activity to promote their overall health and well-being.
5. Quality Sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for children’s growth and development. Establish a regular bedtime routine and create a comfortable sleep environment.
6. Encourage Curiosity and Learning: Foster a love for learning by providing age-appropriate books, educational toys, and engaging activities. Encourage questions and exploration.
7. Positive Discipline: Use discipline methods that focus on teaching, setting limits, and guiding behavior, rather than punitive measures. This helps children learn how to make positive choices.
8. Encourage Independence: Allow children to make age-appropriate decisions and take on responsibilities. This helps build their self-confidence and decision-making skills.
9. Emotional Intelligence: Help children recognize and manage their emotions. Teach them healthy ways to express themselves and cope with stress.
10. Social Skills: Teach empathy, kindness, and respect for others. Encourage them to share, take turns, and collaborate in play and activities.
11. Creative Expression: Provide opportunities for artistic and creative expression. This could include drawing, painting, music, dancing, or other creative outlets.
12. Limit Screen Time: Monitor and limit screen time, as excessive use of screens can negatively impact development and social interactions.
13. Nature and Outdoor Activities: Spending time in nature and engaging in outdoor play can improve physical health, boost creativity, and reduce stress.
14. Encourage Problem-Solving: Allow children to face challenges and solve problems on their own, with guidance when needed. This builds their critical thinking skills.
15. Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate their milestones and achievements, no matter how small. This fosters a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
16. Cultivate Resilience: Help children develop resilience by teaching them how to cope with setbacks and failures. Encourage a growth mindset and the idea that mistakes are opportunities to learn.
17. Cultural and Social Exposure: Introduce them to diverse cultures, beliefs, and experiences. This promotes open-mindedness and understanding of the world around them.
18. Encourage Play: Play is essential for children’s development. It helps them learn social skills, problem-solving, and creativity while having fun.
19. Active Listening: Take time to actively listen to children. This shows that their thoughts and feelings are valued and helps them feel understood.
20. Model Positive Behavior: Children often imitate the behavior they see. Model kindness, respect, responsibility, and empathy in your own actions.

Remember that every child is unique, so it’s important to tailor your approach to their individual needs and personalities. Building a strong foundation during childhood sets the stage for a successful and fulfilling life.