It’s every parent’s dream to raise healthy, happy children who value their own wellbeing. But with so many conflicting views out there about child-rearing, where do you start? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer on how to best promote wellbeing in kids. However, trying out some fun wellness-centred activities is a pretty good place to start! Give the following activities a go, and before you know it, your child will have an expanded worldview and a healthier self-image.
Appreciating and creating art
Art has a surprising way of developing maturity. Art can be the primary way in which kids come to appreciate beauty. But it isn’t all about aesthetics! With a simple visit to one of the local galleries here in Dubai, you can guide your children through the art of appreciating the little details in life. These things could include a single, meaningful brush stroke in the corner of a painting, or intentional blur at the edge of a photograph.
Reading, reading, reading
The more we read, the more we know: that much is obvious. It’s not all about increasing intelligence, though. Reading can also give kids the best possible chance of being good people. In the same way that volunteering helps to expose kids to other ways of life, reading has an insistent way of putting us in other people’s shoes. In this way, books teach us sympathy and tolerance. Reading is also the most effective way of introducing children to difficult, abstract truths about life which can’t always be taught by mum and dad.
Exploring the outdoors
Scientists are just beginning to demonstrate the importance of wellbeing for kids. Not only that, but activities such as camping and hiking extend a bounty of life lessons to youngsters. Firstly, time spent outdoors teaches kids how to appreciate and care for the environment. Secondly, they’ll learn how to engage with their peers without the interference of screens. In other words, if you want well-adjusted kids, send them outside!
Practicing meditative thinking
Encouraging kids to be reflective and mindful isn’t as hard as it sounds! You just need to remind them regularly that positive thoughts have real power in the world. Your children might find it easiest to get started with meditative thinking by creating their own “positivity motto.” A positivity motto is a brief saying or sentiment which kids can direct towards significant people in their lives.
Yoga
If this isn’t quite up your kid’s alley, you might encourage them to try yoga, instead. There has recently been a real upsurge in kids’ yoga, and for good reason. Yoga teaches children the principles of awareness and mindfulness at the same time as it engages their bodies. Add some music to the mix, and your kids will soon be yoga super-fans.
Wellbeing for Kids at Neoversity
Our Wellbeing Wednesday Club promotes positive mental health by teaching how to improve self confidence, social skills, self esteem and emotional awareness. Your child can expect lots of fun including yoga, journalling, team building activities and expressive art.
Classes start from 6 January, every Wednesday 5pm – 6pm at the Neoversity Learning Center in Al Furjan Pavilion. Find out more.
