We can all agree that childhood is a special phase of life. When you look back at that period of your life, you can’t help but feel nostalgic. It was a time when you were genuinely happy, naturally inquisitive, carefree, and filled with awe. I am sure most people will relate to this. But there’s another reason why childhood is such a significant phase. It plays a crucial role in determining the type of person you grow up to be. Of course, there are other factors at play, but your experiences in your childhood matter a lot in shaping you as an individual.
This is why it’s important to ensure the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of our children. It could literally change the course of their lives for the better. Fortunately, you don’t have to go out of your way or do something grand to ensure your kids’ wellness. There are many simple activities that you can do with them for this purpose. Let’s explore some of them below.
1) Replace screentime with playtime
I think we all know by instinct (and by experience) that children love playtime. They love running around, chasing each other, being outside, and just having a great time. However, in the modern world, smart devices have reduced the amount of playtime that kids are getting. This could have unwanted consequences in the long run. So, it’s a good idea to encourage them to regularly put their devices aside and spend ample time just playing around. Research has shown that doing so has a plethora of benefits and a very positive impact on kids’ wellness. It helps develop their physical and emotional strength, creativity, decision-making skills, social skills, and so on.
2) Supercharge story time
It is common for parents to read stories to their kids while they go to sleep. Doing so has its own benefits. But, if you really want to turbocharge the process, you could engage them in some story writing. It is easy to do with children since they naturally love stories. In the evening or whenever you have time, you could sit together, come up with a prompt and write stories together. You can check out this link for a step-by-step guide. Try to make it interesting by coming up with fun characters and intriguing storylines. This can help enhance your child’s creativity, and encourage them to develop empathy by writing the storylines of various characters.
3) Help them learn a musical instrument
We all know the type of effect that music has on us. Even doctors and psychologists say that music can lead to psychological well-being. Naturally, the same applies to our little humans also. If you introduce the element of music into their lives early on, they will benefit a lot from it. And one of the best ways to do so is by helping them learn a musical instrument. Don’t worry, if you don’t know how to play one, there are lots of online resources that you can use, YouTube in particular has tons of videos. And who says only your child can learn it? You could learn with them and make the experience that much better! Why focus exclusively on your kids’ wellness when you can take care of yours at the same time?
4) Have a heart-to-heart
As adults, we all know the value of listening. Especially when we are faced with troubles and need to shed some weight off of our hearts. And when we have a heart-to-heart conversation with a friend or family member, we end up feeling a lot better. Now, the same can be done with children. After all, they have thoughts and emotions too, and they should mot be dismissed! Sitting with them as often as you like and just talking can have a tremendous impact. When they genuinely feel like you are listening and trying to understand them, they will open up even more to you. Naturally, this will make your bond with them stronger and this will do wonders to your kids’ mental and emotional wellness.
5) Spend time outdoors
In a time when children often prefer to play video games than to step outside, it is more important than ever to introduce them to Mother Nature. Initially, they might be a little reluctant. But when they experience the beauty and magnificence of the outdoors, they will come around quickly. Spending time outdoors allows children to understand their place in reality and learn the importance of caring for the environment. Additionally, the physical exertion involved in hiking, walking, camping, etc has benefits for their physical wellness (and might help them sleep better at night!).
6) Cook together
Cooking warms the heart and soothes the soul. Who doesn’t love the smell, sight, and taste of their favorite food? The experience of enjoying your meal can be enhanced further if you cook it from scratch, and I’m sure you know that cooking is a great way to promote a sense of well-being. So, why not try to cook together with your child and teach them this essential life skill at the same time? You can find some yummy kid-friendly recipes here, why not pick one to try out together? Imagine the delight and joyous look on your child’s face when they actually cook something delicious!
7) Introduce them to meditation
Meditation is a one-stop-shop to ensure wellness, whether it is for adults or for kids. This ancient practice has survived and thrived for thousands of years because it really makes a difference in people’s physical, mental, and emotional health. You might think that children are too young to be able to meditate, but prepare to be surprised! The key is not to expect them to sit still like an adult would, and to adapt your practice to your kid’s age, but even a toddler can learn to be mindful, and it actually might be easier and faster for children to relax. We really encourage you to meditate together (at least until they are comfortable doing it on their own). If you need some help regarding teaching them how to meditate, be sure to check out this guide from Parents that has all the information you need.
