Building a Resilient Child

Resiliency, or the ability to recover after a period of hardship or difficulty, is an important skill for all of us to possess. There are numerous factors that influence our resilience, and resilience can be developed and strengthened at any age. In this post, we’ll look at how we can help children develop this important skill.

Guides on Having a Resilient Child

Making Contacts

Multiple studies have concluded that a child’s connections with the adults in their lives are one of the most important factors in their ability to develop resilience. Even if a child has just one stable, caring adult in their life who always supports them, their ability to be resilient increases significantly.

Making other connections is also beneficial. It is beneficial for children to learn how to form positive social interactions with adults other than their parents and with their peers. We learn so much from those around us, and having others to celebrate victories with and lean on when times are tough helps us all to recover.

Provide Options Within Limits for Resiliency

Structure is essential for children and require routines. They must be aware of what is to come. They require the sense of security that comes with consistency. It takes a lot of effort on our part as parents to build these structures, but it is critical that we do so so that our children can explore their independence and autonomy within them.

What about the part where you get to pick? This can be seen in a variety of ways. Children can choose their own clothing, have a say in what they eat, and participate in family fun-time decisions. They must have the feeling that they are in command of themselves. That sense of control contributes to the development of confidence, which will be extremely beneficial in the future.

Allow your child to choose the color of his or her pants. Ask your preschooler if they would prefer to brush their teeth or put on their pajamas first. Allow your elementary-aged child to pack his or her own lunch (after you teach them what types of foods are needed for proper nutrition).

Remember that your adolescent’s desire for independence is accompanied by a desire for boundaries. Each child is unique, but make sure you and your child are on the same page about what limits are necessary.

Have a good time!

At least one study discovered that providing children with a cognitively stimulating environment aided in the development of being resilient. Some quick suggestions:

• Provide puzzles and board games that are developmentally appropriate.
• Build toys (blocks, Legos, marble runs, etc.) for all ages are available.
• Incorporate music into your daily routine.
• Have some basic art supplies on hand.
• Make physical activity enjoyable and frequent.

Maintain a Positive Attitude

Children who can frame their lives in a positive light are far more likely to be resilient, and positivity is best learned through modeling. If you are upbeat, your child will most likely be as well.

This can be difficult during prolonged periods of stress, which almost every family will experience at some point. Even0 during stressful times, look for small ways to express gratitude.

One easy way is to emphasize the importance of a family dinner and have everyone share something positive about their day. Even at the end of a bad day, a brief moment of reflection can help remind us of all the good things we have going for us.

Teach Skills Proactively and As Needed

What keeps you afloat? Teach your child these skills, whether it’s exercise, deep breathing, meditation, hobbies, or staying in touch with friends (or a combination of these). Taking time to care for oneself is essential, and it should be taught to children at a young age.

You may notice that your child’s needs change as he or she grows older. Address these as they arise, though it is sometimes best to wait for a calm moment. One of the most important facts to remember when cultivating resilience is that a child has an adult in their life who consistently supports them. You’ve already arrived, and you’re already doing it.

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