Featured In: The Coalville Times, Friday, 11th February, 2022

HEALTH MATTERS WITH DR HANNA ROBBINS

Children's Mental Health Week

THIS week focuses on good mental health for children and young people. Physical growth is visible, we see our children grow taller and stronger. Mental and emotional health are just as important.

Here are some ways you can support your child’s emotional health:

• Tell them stories about when they were younger. Children enjoy sharing memories. Talk about good times together and how they have changed over the years
• Praise their emotional growth. Maybe they managed to walk away from a fight with a brother or sister, or have learned to join in play when they used to be too shy
• Praise them when they try new things. This gives them confidence to try new things again
• Listen to their hopes and dreams for the future. Point out to them that anything brave or kind they do is a step towards their future job or role
• Support them to learn from tough situa- tions. If your child is having a tricky time with friends or a teacher, or something has not gone as well as they hoped, listen to those difficult feelings. Let them know that you understand, and help them to see that these situations help us learn how to deal with life’s ups and downs

WHAT SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE?

parentingsmart.org.uk – free practical advice and tips on supporting your child’s emotional wellbeing and growth

ChatHealth - a confidential text messag- ing service for parents and carers of children aged 0-19 for help and support. A health visitor or school nurse will reply within 24 hours. Text your School Nurse on 07520 615 382 or use the website: chathealth.nhs.uk

For urgent health advice, contact your GP, an NHS walk-in centre or use 111 on- line or call NHS 111. For emergencies, call 999.