How to Improve Mental Health for Your Children This School Year

Back-to-school season is in full swing, and while the excitement of new backpacks, pencils, and potential new friends fills the air, we also need to talk about something that doesn’t get enough attention—mental health for your children.

Let’s face it, the school year can be a lot. From homework to sports practice, social dynamics, and everything in between, kids can easily become overwhelmed. So, as a parent, how do you ensure your child’s mental well-being while juggling all of the other back-to-school madness?

Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into how you can help your kids navigate this school year with more peace, confidence, and emotional stability—with a little help from you and, yes, maybe a sprinkle of grace and prayer.

1. Start with a Calm Morning Routine

Let’s be real—mornings are stressful. The rush to get ready, find missing shoes, pack lunch, and get out the door on time... It’s a lot. But how your child starts their day can significantly impact their mental health.

Here’s the deal: A peaceful morning sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Try these ideas:

• Quiet time: Before diving into the whirlwind of the day, carve out a few minutes for calm. Whether it’s a simple prayer, some deep breathing, or even 5 minutes of reading together, a peaceful start makes a HUGE difference.
• Get moving: Physical activity boosts those happy hormones (aka endorphins) and helps your child feel more grounded and ready to take on the world. A quick walk, some stretching, or a dance-off in the living room works wonders.
• Organize the night before: Set out clothes, pack the backpack, and get everything ready the night before. Less scrambling = less stress!

2. Keep the Communication Line Open (And Keep It Fun)

It’s easy to brush off your child’s concerns when you’re busy, but they’re dealing with real challenges, too. Whether it's anxiety over a test, drama with a friend, or just the pressure of keeping up with schoolwork, kids need a safe space to express themselves.

Tip for you: Encourage regular check-ins—nothing too formal, just a simple "How’s your day?" over dinner or while driving them to practice. It’s about making them feel heard without piling on the pressure.

Now, for the fun part—don’t forget to add a little humor. Laughter is a huge stress reliever. So, after those deep convos, try breaking the tension with a silly joke or lighthearted comment. It might just give them the relief they need to feel understood.

3. Emphasize the Importance of Self-Care (Without Being a Drill Sergeant)

We all know how essential self-care is—whether you’re an adult or a kid. But let’s not make it sound like another task on the to-do list.

Self-care doesn’t have to be a chore. Make it part of their routine without the eye-rolls. Here are some ways to keep it light:

• Sleep: Make sure your kids are getting the recommended 9-11 hours of sleep. Yes, that means setting a bedtime, no matter how much they protest. A well-rested kid is a mentally healthier kid.
• Screen time: Too much screen time can mess with sleep patterns and anxiety levels. Set clear limits, and encourage other activities like reading, puzzles, or just playing outside.
• Downtime: Allow kids to be bored. Seriously. Free time is essential for their mental health. Let them create their own adventures, imagine stories, and engage in creative play. You might even want to jump in on a game of tag now and then!

4. Teach Them to Manage Stress—Before It Manages Them

Teaching kids how to handle stress is one of the most valuable skills you can pass on. And the great news? You can do this without turning your home into a wellness boot camp.

Here’s how:

• Deep breathing: Teach them the power of breathing deeply when they feel overwhelmed. A simple “breathe in for 4, hold for 4, breathe out for 4” technique can calm the mind and body in seconds.
• Mindfulness: Kids can be amazing at being present. Turn off distractions and have them focus on what’s happening around them—whether it’s a pet, the wind in the trees, or the sound of rain. A little mindfulness goes a long way in keeping stress at bay.

5. Help Them Build Confidence (No, It’s Not Just for Adults)

Mental health for kids is about feeling capable and confident, even in the face of challenges. Help your child identify their strengths and celebrate every little success. When kids feel good about themselves, they’re less likely to internalize stress.

Encourage your child to set small, achievable goals for themselves. And when they achieve them—celebrate! Acknowledge the hard work, no matter how small it might seem. Confidence grows with every win.

A Special Gift for You and Your Child’s Mental Health

Now, if you're feeling like your child could use some extra support (and let's face it, who couldn't?), I’ve got something special for you. Take advantage of my free 5-day trial, where you’ll receive daily prophetic teachings, prayer meditations, and tools that will not only help YOU as a parent but also help your child with peace and mental clarity.

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Visit FilledByFaith.com to start your free trial today. Trust me, your whole family will thank you.