(Family Features) The early years of a child’s life are crucial for laying the foundation of their social and emotional well-being, which greatly influences their success in school and beyond. It is essential for parents, caregivers, and educators to prioritize and nurture the mental health of children in their care.
Dr. Lauren Loquasto, senior vice president and chief academic officer at The Goddard School, and Dr. Kyle Pruett, clinical professor of child psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine and member of The Goddard School’s Educational Advisory Board, offer insights and guidance on supporting children’s mental well-being.
Understanding Mental Health in Young Children
Mental health affects how everyone – including young children – thinks, feels, and behaves. It impacts their ability to cope with stress, build relationships, and navigate life. Both genetic and environmental factors influence mental health development. Each child’s mental makeup is a unique combination of inherited traits and life experiences, including family, culture, and education.
For young children, there is no distinction between mental and physical health. The brain and body grow and develop rapidly, and by six months, children can begin to feel overwhelmed by negative experiences. Early interactions with children can have lasting social and emotional consequences.
Causes for Concern
Identifying mental health concerns in young children can be challenging as expected and worrisome behaviors are not always clearly defined. However, certain signs should prompt attention. Infants should engage in “serve and return” activities, where they signal their needs and caregivers respond. A lack of these signals or a passive demeanor can be concerning.
For toddlers, discerning between typical “terrible twos” behavior and potential issues can be difficult. Constant excessive aggressiveness, lack of control, and screaming instead of talking are signs that may need further evaluation.
By pre-kindergarten and kindergarten, tantrums should subside, and children should show interest in making friends and developing language skills. A lack of these interests or self-regulation issues, such as hurting others or animals, warrants seeking help.
Seeking Help
If concerns arise, parents should contact their pediatric care provider, who may recommend consulting a mental health provider experienced in working with children. Choosing the right provider is crucial. Parents can seek recommendations from their network, including pediatric care providers, friends, and family.
Supporting Early Social and Emotional Development
Understand your child’s behavior: Recognize that non-verbal behavior is a form of communication. Narrate their experiences and label emotions, e.g., “I see you’re angry. Can I help you put your shoes on?”
Model social and emotional self-control: Demonstrate coping techniques, e.g., “I’m frustrated. I’m going to pause, take deep breaths, then tell you what I need.”
Be a good example: Show how to be a good friend, show respect, and use good manners.
Partner with your child’s teachers: Maintain open communication to discuss potential concerns.
Avoid rushing to diagnose: Understand that children often express their strongest emotions with parents because they trust them. Experiences with your child may differ from others. Take time to understand what your child is conveying and seek information from others.
Manage anxious behavior: Be present, listen, observe, answer questions, label emotions, and provide reassurance. Avoid overreacting to fears. Recognize that learning to manage emotions is a gradual process similar to learning other skills, like riding a bike.
Prioritizing and nurturing the mental health of young children is essential for their overall well-being and future success. By understanding, supporting, and appropriately responding to their emotional needs, caregivers can foster a healthier and more resilient generation.
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