Nurturing Mental Well-being: 5 Tips To Foster Early Mental Health In Schools

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Early intervention is key. By prioritising mental health in schools, we can create a generation of young adults who are emotionally intelligent, well-adjusted, and empowered to reach their full potential.

By implementing these strategies, schools in India can foster a culture of mental well-being. This will equip students with the tools they need to navigate challenges, build resilience, and thrive throughout their lives. 

In India, the conversation surrounding mental health is gaining momentum, and rightfully so. Studies suggest a troubling trend – a significant portion of the student population battles mental health issues. According to the Journal of the Indian Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, anxiety, social withdrawal, and dysphoria collectively impact a staggering 51% of school-aged children and adolescents. This highlights the critical need to prioritise mental well-being in schools, fostering a safe space for young minds to learn, grow, and thrive.

Here are 5 tips for schools shared by Srividya Iyer, Assistant General Manager-Personalised Learning Centre, VIBGYOR Group of Schools in India to cultivate a supportive environment that prioritises mental well-being:

Prioritising Self-Care: 

Just as a garden requires regular watering to thrive, kids’ well-being demands activities that rejuvenate their spirits. By equipping students with coping mechanisms and resilience-building skills early on, schools can empower them to navigate life’s ups and downs effectively. Through practices like self-reflection and emotional regulation exercises, students can learn to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to adversity.

Workshops that fuel creativity: 

Incorporating mental health education into the curriculum is essential for breaking down the stigma surrounding discussions on mental well-being. Schools can offer engaging and interactive workshops and programmes centred on mental health such as relationship & communication, designed to be both enjoyable and thought-provoking. These sessions can encourage students to express themselves creatively through various artistic mediums such as drawing, painting, street play, or crafting. Creative expression serves as a non-verbal outlet for emotions, fostering self-awareness and providing a means for emotional release. Additionally, schools can conduct sessions on addressing cyberbullying for students and cyber safety for parents, fostering awareness and providing avenues for assistance when needed. Furthermore, educators can leverage the power of storytelling and role-playing to help students comprehend and articulate their feelings. 

Offer Counselling and Mental Health Services: 

Access to mental health services within schools is essential for early intervention and support. Schools can collaborate with mental health professionals to provide counselling services, support groups, and workshops on topics such as stress management, body image, anxiety reduction, and resilience building. By offering these resources on-site, schools can remove barriers to access and ensure that students receive the help they need on time. Workshops can be conducted with parents on topics like Relationships and communication, A balancing act between Parent v/s Friend, and provide basic tips on Parenting essentials.

Mindful Movements: 

Incorporating mindfulness into daily classroom routines through activities like yoga and stretching exercises can promote a sense of calm and focus among kids. Mindful movements not only improve physical health but also enhance self-awareness and mental focus, empowering students to make conscious decisions.

Create a Supportive School Environment: 

Schools should strive to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where students feel safe to express their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment or stigma. This can be achieved by promoting positive relationships among students and between students and teachers, implementing anti-bullying policies, and organising activities that promote empathy, kindness, and understanding.

Source: Zee News

Interactive VIBGYOR Viva Workshops Learning Beyond Textbooks

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In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, it is crucial for learning to extend beyond traditional textbooks. Embracing this philosophy, VIBGYOR Viva gives an opportunity to students and their families to participate in 100+ workshops and develop new skills through interactive and experiential learning. These workshops are crafted to develop various skills, nurture creativity, and foster holistic growth, making learning an exciting journey rather than a mundane routine.

Objectives of VIBGYOR Viva Workshops

VIBGYOR Viva workshops are a series of interactive sessions aimed at engaging students in hands-on activities that complement their academic learning. These workshops cover a broad spectrum of subjects and interests, ensuring there is something for everyone. Whether it’s science, art, technology, or life skills, VIBGYOR Viva workshops offer diverse opportunities for students to explore and grow.

The primary objective of VIBGYOR Viva workshops is to enhance practical knowledge by moving beyond theoretical concepts. These workshops provide students with practical exposure to various subjects. They encourage creativity and innovation by inspiring students to think creatively and come up with innovative solutions to problems. Additionally, they develop critical skills such as teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and communication. Finally, they foster a love for learning by making it fun and interactive, instilling a lifelong love for learning in students.

Workshops Offered at VIBGYOR Viva

The VIBGYOR Viva workshops span various domains, each designed to cater to different interests and skill sets. Here are some of the key workshops offered:

STEM Workshops: The STEM workshops aim to foster a deep understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through practical experiments and projects. Students gain critical thinking, problem-solving, technical skills, and scientific curiosity through workshops like Robotics, Science in Action, Magic of Chemistry, AstroWorld, Calculation Tricks and much more.

Art and Craft Workshops: Art and craft workshops encourage creative expression and artistic skills among students. Through workshops such as Craft, Doodling, Mandala Art, T-Shirt Painting, Pot Painting, Calligraphy, Charcoal Sketching etc. students develop creativity and essential artistic techniques.

Life Skills Workshops: Life skills workshops equip students with essential life skills crucial for personal development and everyday living. Through workshops on Public Speaking, the Art of Hosting, Personality Development, Self Defence etc. students develop communication, leadership, time management, financial literacy and several other critical life skills. 

Sports and Fitness Workshops: The sports and fitness workshops promote physical health and fitness through various sports and physical activities. Students enhance their physical fitness, teamwork, discipline, and strategic thinking through a variety of workshops like Yoga, Meditation, Zumba and much more, 

Culinary Workshops: Culinary workshops such as Chocozia & Wannabe Super Chef introduce students to the basics of chocolate making, cooking and healthy eating. Through these workshops, students learn culinary skills, nutrition knowledge, creativity, and hygiene practices.

Literary and Performing Arts Workshops: Literary and performing arts workshops like Bollywood Dance – Hip Hop, Public Speaking, and Shadow Puppet Stories cultivate an appreciation for literature and performing arts. Through creative writing, drama, poetry reading, storytelling, and public speaking, students develop literary analysis, writing skills, acting, and stage presence.

Benefits for Students and Families

The VIBGYOR Viva workshops are not just for students; they also actively involve families, creating a supportive and engaging learning environment. Joint participation in workshops helps strengthen the bond between students and their families. Parents get a first-hand look at their child’s learning process and can provide better support at home. By participating in diverse activities, students experience well-rounded development that extends beyond academics. Additionally, families get to interact with each other, creating a community that supports collective growth and learning.

Conclusion

The VIBGYOR Viva workshops represent a significant step towards redefining education by integrating practical, creative, and life skills into the curriculum. These workshops ensure that learning is not confined to the pages of a textbook but is a dynamic and engaging experience that prepares students for the real world. By participating in these workshops, students and their families can look forward to a richer, more fulfilling educational journey that truly prepares them for the future. In a world where the ability to adapt and innovate is paramount, the VIBGYOR Viva workshops equip students with the skills and mind-set needed to thrive. As these young minds engage in hands-on activities, creative projects, and life skills training, they are not just learning; they are growing into well-rounded individuals ready to face the challenges of tomorrow.

The Role of Sports in a Student’s Development

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The clamour of excited voices, the rhythmic thud of a ball, and the determined shouts of athletes aren’t mere background noise—they are the symphony of personal growth and development. Sports, often sidelined in favour of academic pursuits, are the unsung heroes of education, crafting resilience, character, and teamwork in ways that textbooks alone cannot.

The influence of ‘sports’ on a student’s growth is profound, enhancing physical health, mental well-being, social skills, and academic performance. Therefore, it is essential to introduce children to a holistic education that includes both indoor and outdoor sports, as well as other extracurricular activities. By doing so, we nurture balanced and thriving individuals equipped for various life challenges.

Educators around the globe are adopting a holistic approach to education that prioritises a student’s overall growth, integrating a robust sports curriculum with in-classroom academic learning. Education institutions are increasingly providing platforms for students to excel in sports and performing arts, enabling them to represent their institutions in inter-school and state-level competitions. This fosters a healthy competitive spirit, helping students develop essential skills such as discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. It also boosts their confidence and self-esteem and offers recognition and opportunities for further growth.

Exposing children to various sports helps in the development of kinesthetic and spatial skills. This helps in identifying the inherent capability of the child in selected sports and provides specialised training in those areas.

Here’s a closer look at how sports play a pivotal role in shaping students’ lives.

Building Resilience and Character

Engaging in sports is more than just physical activity; it’s a rigorous training ground for the mind and character. Students learn the value of perseverance through the highs of victory and the lows of defeat. When a young athlete misses a crucial goal or stumbles at a critical moment, they face a choice: give up or try harder. This decision-making process builds resilience, teaching students to bounce back from setbacks and remain committed to their goals.

Enhancing Social Skills and Teamwork

Sports are a melting pot of social interaction. Whether it’s communicating on the football field, strategising in a basketball game, or supporting a teammate in track and field, students develop essential social skills. They learn how to work effectively within a team, understanding the importance of each role and the power of collective effort. This camaraderie fosters a sense of belonging and teaches the significance of collaboration—skills that are invaluable both inside and outside the classroom.

Promoting Physical and Mental Well-being

In an age where screen time often outweighs physical activity, sports provide a crucial counterbalance. Regular physical activity boosts cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and improves coordination. Moreover, the endorphins released during exercise have a profound impact on mental health, reducing stress and anxiety, and enhancing overall mood. For students juggling academic pressures, sports can be a vital outlet for releasing tension and maintaining a healthy balance.

Encouraging Discipline and Time Management

The rigorous schedule of practices, games, and training sessions requires students to master time management. Balancing academics with sports commitments teaches them to prioritise and manage their time efficiently. The discipline gained from adhering to training regimens and meeting team expectations translates into improved study habits and a stronger work ethic. These skills are not only crucial for academic success but also prepare students for the demands of future careers.

Fostering Leadership and Accountability

On the field, students often encounter leadership opportunities, whether as team captains or by taking initiative during a game. These experiences build confidence and teach them how to motivate and inspire their peers. Additionally, being part of a team requires accountability—not just for personal actions but also for contributing to the team’s success. This sense of responsibility fosters maturity and a deeper understanding of how individual actions impact the larger community.

Cultivating Lifelong Habits and Passions

The love for sports cultivated during school years often extends into adulthood, promoting a lifelong commitment to health and fitness. Moreover, the passions and interests developed through sports can influence career choices and recreational activities, enriching students’ lives long after they leave the school environment.

Conclusion: Beyond the Classroom Walls

Sports play an important role in shaping well-rounded individuals. They offer a dynamic environment where students learn critical life skills, forge strong social bonds, and develop a healthy lifestyle. As educators and parents, recognising and supporting the role of sports in a student’s development is essential. The lessons learned on the playing field beyond the classroom walls, are invaluable, contributing to the holistic growth and success of our future leaders. So, next time you see a student rushing to practise or celebrating a game-winning point, remember: they are not just playing a game—they are building their future.

Cultivating Sustainable Futures Through Local Food Initiatives

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According to the 2020 report on Empowering Communities through Participatory Learning and Action Approach, more than a quarter of the world’s undernourished people are in India, despite economic growth and self-sufficiency in food grain production.

However, the emergence of local food initiatives has not only ensured access to fresh, nutritious food but also sparked a wave of economic growth and community empowerment.

Before delving in-depth, let’s take a moment to consider the importance of empowering communities through local food initiatives.

  • Fostering self-reliance: Local food networks allow farmers to cultivate their own food. Communities reduce their dependence on external sources and gain control over their food supply, leading to greater resilience and the ability to thrive independently.
  • Increasing employment opportunities: By encompassing every stage of the food supply chain – farming, harvesting, processing, and selling – these initiatives create employment opportunities. As a result, local food initiatives foster economic growth, creating a ripple effect that strengthens the entire community.
  • Inspiring innovation: Through local food networks, communities tap into their collective creativity and resourcefulness. Such community food projects inspire innovative solutions and encourage experimentation with new farming techniques and community engagement strategies. For example, DeHaat utilises AI, data analytics, and machine learning to streamline the supply chain, reduce inefficiencies, and ensure better prices for farmers.

Another initiative that uses IoT is Farm Basket which has introduced vending machines that dispense fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. The innovation lies in making healthy, farm-fresh produce available 24/7 in urban areas, offering convenience to busy city dwellers while supporting local farmers.

  • Reducing carbon footprint: By prioritising local production and consumption, these initiatives eliminate the need for long-distance transportation, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. This shift not only supports environmental sustainability but also promotes a healthier planet.
  • Building sustainable roots: Laying the foundation for food sustainability, these efforts instil a sense of responsibility towards the environment and future generations, ensuring that communities remain strong, healthy, and self-sufficient for years to come.

While local food initiatives have become the cornerstone of sustainable development, Budget 2024 has played a pivotal role towards this grassroots movement. The budget’s strategic focus on local food systems is a testament to its commitment to building a stronger, more self-reliant India.

Budget 2024: Sowing the seeds of an agriculture revolution

A substantial allocation of ₹1.52 lakh crore strengthens the foundation of an inclusive agriculture ecosystem. With a laser focus on agri-infrastructure and rural development, the budget empowers farmers to make informed choices, access financial resources, and adapt to changing market conditions with ease.

Moreover, in the next two years, one crore farmers across the country are going to be initiated into natural farming. While oilseeds and pulses production will be on the rise, Farmer-Producer Organisations (FPOs), cooperatives, and start-ups for vegetable supply chains – for collection, storage, and marketing – are going to be promoted.

With the Budget 2024, the government has made a bold commitment towards community empowerment. But over the years, several local food systems have fortified the nation’s food security and economic stability, and continue to do so. 

The Food System in India: Challenges, Performance and Promise Report 2023 mentions that towards 2030 and beyond, feeding India’s growing population is going to be a major task.

There is a need to analyse India’s economic development, agricultural production, and nutrition through a “food systems approach. Local food initiatives are bridging the gap between food production and nutrition, transforming lives and fuelling sustainable development across communities.

Here are some community food projects that have been making a difference.

Local food initiatives: Feeding communities, fuelling change

Eat Right

This community food project is based on three broad pillars – Eat Healthy, Eat Safe, and Eat Sustainable. A pan-India movement, it not only promotes good food habits for people but also food that is good for the planet. Integrating a ‘whole of society’ approach, this initiative blends regulatory, capacity-building, collaboration, and empowerment approaches.

Save Food, Share Food, Share Joy

Tackling food waste and hunger, this program empowers people to minimise their food wastage. Several local food networks come together to provide strategic policies and facilitate the safe distribution of surplus food by connecting trained food recovery agencies with food chains.

Farmer’s Market

Aimed at uplifting small and marginal farmers, this program directly connects them to the consumers. This local food initiative empowers the farmers by substantially increasing their income and transforming them into entrepreneurs, who are not dependent on the middlemen or other intermediaries to reach the market.

Farm to Table

Also known as farm to fork, this farm-to-table movement strives to promote serving local food at restaurants and cafeterias by establishing a direct sales relationship with the producer. A social movement, this community food project gained momentum by aligning with the change in attitudes about food safety, food freshness, seasonality, and small-farm economics.

Promoting Seasonal Consumption

Local food initiatives are reshaping the way we think about what’s on our plate. These sustainable food practices highlight the unmatched quality and flavour of seasonal produce, which is harvested at its peak and delivered fresh. By choosing seasonal over frozen, we embrace a sustainable lifestyle that supports local farmers, reduces our carbon footprint, and solidifies our connection with nature.

Clean Street Food

An all-rounded approach to food safety and healthy nutrition, this initiative focuses on street food vendors’ social and economic upliftment through training and capacity-building. Building healthy communities through local food, the initiative aims to keep a tab on street food’s health, hygiene and safety standards whilst enhancing Street food’s popularity by transforming it into a global brand.

As we celebrate World Food Day on the 16th of October, we strive to create a more informed public, capable of making choices that benefit both personal health and the planet. Local food initiatives have presented us with a holistic approach to nourishing communities, supporting local economies, and ensuring a sustainable future for all. These initiatives pave the way for a future where food security is not just a goal but a reality for all.

Student Exchange Programme Expanding Horizons: The Importance of Student Exchange Programmes in K-12 Education

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In today’s interconnected world, fostering global citizens equipped with intercultural understanding is more crucial than ever. The student exchange programmes bridge geographic divides, offering K-12 students a transformative experience that transcends textbooks. By immersing themselves in new cultures, languages, and educational systems, students embark on a journey of self-discovery that enriches their academic development, personal growth, and future prospects.

Broadening Academic Horizons
Student exchange programmes provide a unique opportunity to engage with different educational systems and teaching methodologies. Students are exposed to new subjects, approaches to learning, and diverse perspectives within their chosen field of study. This exposure can spark intellectual curiosity, enhance critical thinking skills, and encourage a deeper understanding of their own academic pursuits.

For example, consider a science student from India participating in an exchange programme focused on environmental conservation in Europe. They may witness cutting-edge sustainability practices and collaborate with international peers on tackling global challenges. This first-hand experience not only deepens their scientific knowledge but also ignites a passion for environmental responsibility.

These academic exchanges foster a spirit of lifelong learning, encouraging students to embrace new ideas and adapt to unfamiliar learning environments. This adaptability forms a crucial skill set for success in a globalised workplace, where working collaboratively with individuals from various backgrounds is increasingly important.

Fostering Cultural Understanding
Student exchange programmes serve as a bridge between cultures, promoting tolerance, empathy, and a genuine appreciation for diversity. Living and learning alongside students from different backgrounds provides invaluable first-hand experience with customs, traditions, and social norms beyond what textbooks can offer.

Imagine a student from a bustling metropolitan city participating in an exchange programme in a rural village. They may experience a slower pace of life, participate in traditional farming practices, and learn to appreciate the value of community. This cultural immersion fosters empathy and understanding, challenging their own preconceived notions of the world.

Exchange programmes also provide a platform for students to develop their communication skills in a real-world context. By interacting with native speakers, students overcome language barriers and gain confidence in expressing themselves in a foreign tongue. This enhances their overall communication skills, preparing them for future interactions with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Building Bridges: Cultivating Personal Growth and Independence
Student exchange programmes act as catalysts for personal growth and development. Stepping outside one’s comfort zone and adapting to a new environment fosters self-reliance, problem-solving skills, and resilience. Students learn to navigate unfamiliar situations, manage their time effectively, and develop a sense of independence that proves invaluable throughout their lives.

Furthermore, exchange programmes provide exceptional opportunities for personal growth through forging meaningful relationships with students from different cultures. These friendships broaden perspectives, challenge preconceived notions, and teach invaluable lessons about teamwork, collaboration, and building bridges across borders.

A World of Opportunities: Preparing Students for the Future
Student Exchange Programmes equip students with valuable skills and experiences that enhance their future prospects. Universities and colleges increasingly seek applicants with global competencies and intercultural understanding. Participating in a Student Exchange Programme demonstrates a commitment to personal growth, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace new challenges – qualities highly valued by employers in today’s globalised workforce.

Students who participate in exchange programmes may also discover new academic or career interests. An exchange programme focused on art and design could spark a passion for pursuing a career in fashion or graphic design. This exposure to diverse opportunities broadens their perspectives and empowers them to make informed decisions about their future paths.

VIBGYOR Schools’ STEP and EUmIND Initiatives
VIBGYOR Schools, a leading educational institution in India, recognises the transformative power of student exchange programmes. Their innovative Student Teacher Exchange Programme (STEP) allows students to participate in cultural exchange programmes with partner schools in various countries. STEP provides students with carefully curated experiences designed to broaden their academic knowledge, cultivate cultural understanding, and promote personal growth.

VIBGYOR also takes international collaboration to the next level with its EUmIND initiative. This programme fosters student exchanges specifically within European Union countries, allowing students to experience the rich cultural tapestry of Europe first-hand. EUmIND creates a platform for students from diverse backgrounds to learn from each other, fostering a spirit of global citizenship.

These initiatives demonstrate VIBGYOR’s commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education that extends beyond traditional academic boundaries. By prioritising international experiences, VIBGYOR empowers its students to become global citizens equipped to thrive in an interconnected world.

Conclusion
Student exchange programmes in K-12 education offer a transformative experience that benefits students on a personal, academic, and global level. These programmes equip students with the skills and perspectives necessary to thrive in an interconnected world by fostering self-reliance, intercultural understanding, and a global mindset. As the world continues to shrink, the importance of fostering global citizens who can collaborate and contribute to a better future cannot be overstated. Student exchange programmes are a powerful tool for achieving this goal, creating a generation of individuals prepared to lead the way in a world without borders.

Beyond Words: Effective Approaches to Parent-Child Communication

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Children are easily influenced by the words and actions of those around them. As parents, it is up to you to keep the conversations more free-flowing and enhance parent-child communication.

When you converse with your child as if they are the wisest and kindest ones, you not only nurture their self-esteem but also encourage them to see themselves through a lens of positivity, confidence, and compassion.

But, why are communication skills vital for children?

Parent-child relationship building is all about understanding a child’s perspective and truly connecting with them on a deeper level. By honing their communication skills, you empower them to thrive in a world where communication is key to success and fulfillment.

Even the ‘Parent-Child Communication: A Case Study of Teachers from a Romanian Life-Sciences University’ study suggests that the relationship between parents and children can be improved if parents do their best to communicate effectively. This allows the child to feel heard and understood.

So, here are some effective communication techniques to improve your dialogue with children:

Listen carefully

This involves affirming and accepting your child’s emotions. When you listen to your little ones, you show them that they are loved, and in turn, they too are motivated to communicate freely. Active listening skills require you to show intent, sit at their eye level to make them feel equal to you when they speak, and ask more questions to let them know that you are interested.

Be more expressive

Often, the unspoken cues speak louder than words, and your facial expressions convey a lot that is unsaid. A simple gesture like patting your child’s back on a job well done, a bear hug, or just your tone of voice can express how you feel or what you think about the topic at hand. The way you sit, stand, or hold your kid’s hand means more to them.

Speak with clarity

Converse with your child in a way that is concise, understandable, and makes them feel respected and loved. Being mindful of your words creates a supportive and loving environment for your child’s growth and development.

Inspire through action

You must lead by example as your child emulates your behaviour, attitude, and values. So, remember to always make thoughtful choices. Be kind with your words, honest in your actions, and a positive role model, significantly influencing your child’s development and character.

Foster empathy

Respecting your child’s thoughts is a powerful way to validate their experiences and opinions. By showing empathy, you teach your child the importance of considering others’ viewpoints, nurturing their ability to forge positive relationships, and interacting with kindness and consideration. Here are some ways to introduce empathy in your parenting style:

  • Keep it open-ended: Instead of a ‘yes’ or ‘no’, open-ended questions allow your child to stay in control of the conversation and invite more meaningful discussions. Asking questions like, ‘What are you thinking about’ or ‘What do you think happened’, allows them to be more expressive and builds their social-emotional skills.
  • Opt for reflective listening: Don’t just listen, show your child that you care. This way, your child trusts you more and knows that you are an active part of their conversation. Phrases like, ‘I’m sorry to hear that…’, ‘It sounds like…’ or ‘In other words…’, can help keep the conversation going.
  • Acknowledge their emotions: When your child experiences a certain emotion, don’t negate it. Instead use responses like, ‘I’m sorry you are hurting, or ‘Are you worried about something?’. This validates their feelings and reassures them that it is natural to feel a range of emotions.

Family Bondings

In today’s digital age, prioritise healthy family communication by setting aside dedicated time for your little one. Spend quality time with them, fostering an environment that encourages effective family dialogue and connections. Improve family communication skills through:

  • One-on-one time: Set aside specific time for your child, giving them every minute and opportunity to share their daily experiences and forging a stronger bond between the two of you.
  • Spend time with family: Reserve specific days for cosy family dinners or game nights that offer enjoyment and facilitate meaningful conversations with your little one.
  • Disconnect to reconnect: Create boundaries around your child’s and your screen time to make more time for each other, minimising distractions, and fostering unhindered interactions.

​​In addition to prioritising open communication, it is also important to be mindful of and steer clear of negative communication that can hamper your relationship with your child.

The Don’ts of Negative Communication

A ResearchGate review paper from March 2022, ‘Communication Problem and Conflicts in Parent-Child Relationship’, states that negative communication creates many psychological and social problems among children as well as parents.

So, be alert and aware, and correct these negative forms of communication if they arise.

Don’t dwell on the past

What’s done is in the past; once a conflict is resolved, refrain from revisiting past mistakes. Instead, support your child in moving forward with a clean slate.

Don’t criticise

While criticism involves judgment, correction serves as guidance. For example, instead of saying, ‘You are so messy’, tell them, ‘Leaving your toys scattered makes the room look untidy. Let’s put them away together.’

Don’t break the flow

Give your child the liberty to speak their mind and convey their thoughts. Interrupting them can make them feel discouraged and unwilling to share their feelings in the future.

Don’t lecture

Avoid lecturing as it can lead to your little one becoming defensive. Switch to some positive parenting strategies like asking them why they did what they did or helping them find solutions instead. Like many things in life, open communication is more about patience and practice, not perfection. As parents, you might inevitably make mistakes, but what improves parent-child communication and helps in building trust with children is your constant effort to communicate effectively with your kids from an early age.



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