As parents, it’s natural to want to protect our children from life’s ups and downs. But how can we best support them when they face setbacks? One surprisingly effective way in helping our children through setbacks is through movement. Let’s dive into how we can use this simple yet powerful tool to help our child navigate challenges.
Why Movement Matters
Movement does wonders for our mental health and in helping our children through setbacks. When they engage in physical activity, it helps them process emotions and release stress. Think of it as a natural mood booster!
Research supports this approach. According to a study published in the Pediatrics journal, physical activity has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in children. Physical exercise triggers the release of endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. This biological response can help to move emotions up and out of their body, providing a healthy outlet for stress and frustration.
As parents, we can incorporate a collaborative approach that can also be beneficial. Consider asking your child, “Would you like to go for a walk/run/other with me?” This not only provides an opportunity for bonding it is also an invitation that allows them to feel supported and understood.
During this shared activity, let them take the lead in deciding whether to talk or simply enjoy the moment in silence. I know this can be super hard to do as a parent because it hurts our hearts to see our children in any type of pain however, by doing so, we can foster an environment of trust and openness, where our child feels safe to express themselves or just be in our supportive presence.
If they do want to talk, ask open-ended questions and really listen to their thoughts and feelings. Also, ask them if they would like you to just listen or would like any feedback. Sometimes our children just need to express their feelings out loud to someone without any judgement or solutions being given. By doing so, this shows that you care and respect them as well as builds a deeper connection.
Research indicates that giving children a sense of choice and control can enhance their coping skills and resilience. Children who feel empowered to make choices in how they handle stress are better able to manage their emotions and recover from setbacks.
Ways to Get Moving Together
Here are some ideas for helping our children through setbacks that will get them moving and lift their spirits:
- Dance it Out🕺💃 Turn up their favorite tunes and have a dance party right in your living room! Let your child pick the songs and lead the way. This not only gets them moving but also puts a big smile on their face.
- Nature Walks🌳🌸 Head outside for a walk in the park or a nearby trail. The fresh air and change of scenery can be incredibly soothing.
- Create an Obstacle Course🎯 Use household items to set up a fun obstacle course. Get creative and let your child navigate through it. It’s a fantastic way to combine play and physical activity.
- Bike Rides🚴♂️ Take a leisurely bike ride together. It’s a great way to explore the neighborhood and enjoy some quality time.
Incorporating these simple activities into our routine, we are helping our children through setbacks by giving them the tools they need while also building their resilience. Plus, you’ll create beautiful memories together.
It is also important to think about how we handle setbacks. What are we modeling for our children? It can even be helpful to explain to our children, in an age-appropriate way, that we had a setback and are going for a walk, or whatever activity speaks to your heart, to help process our emotions. By doing so, our children can see us in action and know that we are walking our talk.
