7 everyday parenting habits that improve your child's mental well-being
Even though parenting is a unique ritual, which is specific to each family with influences from personal to social to familial learnings, few learnings remain common and can be mimicked by the vast majority of parents to ensure inculcation of healthy habits in their children.
According to a 2024 study,
Routines and child development: A systematic review (Selman, Journal of Family Theory & Review
),
consistent home routines like mealtimes and bedtime rituals are linked to fewer internalising problems (e.g., anxiety, depression), reduced externalising behaviours and even lower ADHD symptoms.
Longitudinal evidence shows 'bedtime routines at age 3 predict decreased anxious, depressed, withdrawn and aggressive behaviors at age 5.' A study in
Infant Behavior & Development
tracked over 2,900 children and found that "children with consistent early bedtime routines were better able to regulate their emotions at age three" and that this improved emotional regulation mediated positive behavioural outcomes in fifth grade.
A 1997 study by Gottman, Katz and Hooven,
Parental meta-emotion philosophy,
found that parents who understand and guide children's emotions ('emotion coaching') help them develop self-regulation, attention, emotional bonds and adaptability. As Gottman asserted, 'There is evidence that parents' interaction with the child has implications for the child's ability to self-regulate, focus attention, share intersubjective meaning and be able to interact with a changing environment.
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In an interview with TOI, Dr Kushal Agrawal, HOD - Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics at KVR Hospital in Kashipur, suggested seven tips to meaningfully support your child's mental health and emotional growth -
Encourage open
emotional communication
Daily parenting habits that are scientifically proven to boost kids' well-being (Image: iStock)
Openly sharing emotions is one of the most effective methods to develop resilience. When children can recognise and name their emotions, they are better able to manage them.
Tip:
Create a safe, judgment-free space at home where your child can talk about both positive and challenging feelings.
Just make sure that you impress upon the child that it is OKAY to share everything.
Teach
problem-solving skills
According to research, children who learn problem-solving skills at a young age we can boost their feeling of autonomy and resilience.
Tip:
When your youngster encounters a problem, avoid rushing in to solve it. Motivate your kid to at least attempt to solve it on their own.
Demonstrating resilience in everyday life
Children generally learn through observation, particularly from their parents.
Keeping a calm and positive attitude when facing your own struggles can have a significant impact on your child's capacity to cope with stress.
Tip:
Though it is okay for your kid to share their feelings, you don't need to share your frustrations and insecurities in details as they have to learn resilience from you.
Practice mindfulness together
Mindfulness has been demonstrated to alleviate anxiety and improve emotional regulation in youngsters. Mindfulness enables children to focus on the present moment, which allows them to better manage overwhelming emotions and feelings.
Tip:
Try easy mindfulness exercises as a family. Share everyday moments of thankfulness or practice deep breathing together.
Establish strong social connections
Parenting reset: Daily habits that transform your child's mental well-being (Image: iStock)
Supportive relationships with family, friends and trusted adults are essential for over all development.
Tip:
Arrange playdates, join community groups, or enrol your child in team sports or clubs. These activities create opportunities for kids to learn how to work in groups.
Encourage
positive self-talk
Children gain immensely from learning how to replace negative thoughts with positive self-affirmation.
According to studies, youngsters who use positive self-talk feel more confident and are less likely to experience self-doubt.
Tip:
Encourage them to repeat positive affirmations in front of mirror everyday at set time, say while brushing
Promote physical health for emotional strength
Regular physical activity has been related to a better mood, less stress, and increased resilience. Physical activity gives a productive outlet for energy, promotes general health, and improves mental well-being.
Tip:
Plan family activities like walking, biking, or playing sports. Encourage your child to engage in physical activities they enjoy, which can become a positive coping mechanism for managing stress.
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