In today’s fast-paced and high-pressure environment, many parents struggle to balance work demands, family responsibilities, and personal stress. Amid these challenges, children’s emotional needs are often unintentionally overlooked—an issue experts warn can have long-term consequences for confidence, relationships, and coping abilities.
Recognising the growing importance of emotional well-being in childhood, UNICEF has outlined 10 practical and evidence-based recommendations to help parents and caregivers strengthen children’s mental health and emotional resilience.
“Nurturing and loving care builds a strong foundation, helping your child develop the social and emotional skills they need to lead a happy, healthy and fulfilled life,” UNICEF said in a recent statement.
Why Childhood Mental Well-Being Matters
Mental health during childhood plays a decisive role in how individuals manage stress, navigate relationships, and respond to challenges later in life. Children who feel emotionally supported and understood are more likely to grow into resilient, confident adults.
UNICEF’s guidance emphasises open communication, trust-building, and emotional safety at home—especially during adolescence, a period marked by heightened vulnerability and change.
UNICEF’s 10 Essential Tips for Parents
1. Reassure them they are not alone
Make it clear that your child can always turn to you for support, comfort, or simply a listening ear.
2. Normalise asking for help
Explain that everyone—including adults—sometimes needs help. Seeking support is a strength, not a weakness.
3. Create an emotionally open home
Encourage children to express their feelings freely, regardless of gender or age, without fear of dismissal.
4. Encourage teenagers to talk
Invite adolescents to share their thoughts and emotions without judgment, criticism, or immediate correction.
5. Check in consistently
Simple, regular questions about their day help build trust and show genuine interest in their experiences.
6. Respect their need for personal space
Balance guidance with independence, allowing teenagers the autonomy they need to develop confidence.
7. Normalise emotional struggles
Help children understand that feelings such as stress, sadness, and anxiety are a normal part of growing up.
8. Make conversations about feelings safe
Acknowledge that opening up can feel difficult, and reassure them that sharing emotions is encouraged and valued.
9. Suggest alternative support systems
If a child is reluctant to talk to parents, encourage them to seek support from trusted adults such as relatives, teachers, coaches, or healthcare professionals.
10. Solve problems together
When challenges arise, work collaboratively to find solutions rather than responding with criticism or blame.
Building Emotionally Strong Families
Experts note that these small but intentional actions can significantly strengthen family relationships and support lifelong emotional resilience. Children who feel heard and supported are more likely to develop empathy, self-confidence, and healthy coping mechanisms.
A Call to Parents and Caregivers
As mental health concerns among children and adolescents continue to rise globally, UNICEF’s message is clear: emotional care is as essential as physical care. By prioritising listening, reassurance, and open dialogue, families can play a central role in nurturing a healthier, more emotionally secure generation.
Ultimately, supporting a child’s mental well-being today helps build a stronger, more compassionate society tomorrow.
