In today’s world, children and adolescents are navigating through unprecedented challenges and uncertainties, from global pandemics to socio-political unrest. As parents, it’s natural to feel concerned about how these uncertainties may impact our children’s mental well-being and outlook on the future. However, amidst these trials, there are opportunities for growth, resilience, and hope.

As parents, we’re constantly worrying about our kids. These days, there’s no shortage of things to worry about. From the constant barrage of social media to the pressure to excel in school and extracurriculars, our children are facing a whole new set of challenges that we never had to deal with at their age. Add in global issues like climate change, political unrest, and, of course, the ongoing issues related to the pandemic, it’s no wonder our kids might be feeling overwhelmed. But here’s the thing, hope and resilience are essential tools that can help our teens navigate these challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.

Here are five practical ways parents can support their children in developing resilience and maintaining a positive outlook, even in the face of uncertainty –

1. Open Communication and Validation: Encourage open dialogue with your children about their feelings and concerns. Create a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment. Regularly check in and ask children and teens how they feel in relation to events unfolding at school, in their community and in the world. When adults validate their emotions, it lets them know that it’s okay to feel scared, anxious, or uncertain. For example, if your child expresses worry about the future, you might say, “It’s understandable to feel uncertain right now. Being worried is a normal experience that we all feel. Let’s talk more about what is worrying you right now and what we can do to feel more hopeful.”
   
   
2. Focus on Strengths and Coping Skills: Help your children recognise their strengths and abilities to cope with challenges. Encourage them to engage in activities they enjoy and excel at, whether it’s sports, art, music, or academics. Help them to see that there are many things they are good at and encourage them to focus on developing skills in these areas. Teach them practical coping skills such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or journaling to manage stress and anxiety. By building upon their strengths and coping mechanisms, children and adolescents can develop resilience in the face of adversity.
   
   
3. Promote a Sense of Purpose and Meaning: Help your children find meaning and purpose in their lives, even during uncertain times. Encourage them to engage in acts of kindness, volunteerism, or community service even on a small scale in their school, peer group or local community. When children feel like they are making a positive impact on others, it boosts their sense of self-worth and hope for the future. For instance, you could involve your child in donating to a local food bank, recycling their old toys or furniture to those in need or participating in neighbourhood clean-up efforts. Being involved in their community helps to develop purpose and meaning in life.
   
   
4. Encourage Flexibility and Adaptability: Teach your children the importance of flexibility and adaptability in navigating life’s challenges. Remind them that setbacks and failures are a natural part of the learning process. Encourage them to embrace change and approach challenges with a growth mindset. For example, if your child faces a disappointment, such as not making the sports team, help them see it as an opportunity to learn and grow rather than a defeat. Support children to express disappointment in a positive way and encourage effort over achievement.
   
   
5. Lead by Example: As parents, your actions and attitudes influence your children’s outlook on life. Model resilience, optimism, and hope in your own behaviour. Demonstrate healthy coping strategies when faced with challenges, and openly share your own experiences of overcoming adversity. By leading by example, you show your children that it’s possible to weather storms and emerge stronger on the other side.
   

While we cannot shield our children from life’s uncertainties, we can equip them with the tools and mindset to navigate through them with resilience and hope. By fostering open communication, focusing on strengths, promoting purpose, encouraging adaptability, and leading by example, parents can empower their children to embrace the future with optimism and positivity. Together, we can help our children not only survive but thrive in uncertain times.