Promoting Positive Mental Health in Young Children

by Kylen GlassmannWe have all heard the phrase “children are resilient,” and to an extent this is true. However, with the growing pressure on children, both socially and academically, we want to do everything we can to promote positive mental health and to safeguard against depression, anxiety, and emotional behavioral disorders.Recently, the staff at All Seasons Preschool attended a seminar on mental health. Kelly C. Peterson, a school psychologist, spoke about some of the newer challenges our children face in the current society, challenges that play a large role in why many children suffer from some type of mental illness. We were surprised to learn that 9.5% to 14% of children ages birth to 5 experience emotional/behavioral disturbance, and that about half of all mental illness cases begin by the time a child is 14. What was not surprising is that “mental health is directly linked to educational outcomes,” and frequently mental health problems are more apparent at school than at home. Anxiety, stress, depression, and grief affect how a child sleeps, eats, and performs at school.  Both an increase in screen time and a decrease in play time have contributed to this rise in early mental health problems.As daunting as all this sounds, there are some simple things adults can do to support children and strengthen their mental health. One wonderful strategy is to allow time for play!  Yes, play - simple and incredibly beneficial for several reasons. Not only do we see children practicing early academic skills through  play, but it allows them a chance to socialize, which protects us from mental illness. Also, play physically changes the brain in positive ways; it can increase serotonin and decrease cortisol. Play also provides opportunities for appropriate risk-taking. Without taking risks and making mistakes, kids do not develop self-help and problem-solving skills without interference from an adult. Practice allows them to learn from their choices and feel empowered by their ability to do things on their own; authentic achievement is positively correlated with good mental health.Additionally, screen time should be limited, as it has been proven to induce stress, overload the body's sensory system, and disrupt sleep. Sleep is incredibly important for young brains -- preschoolers should be getting 10-13 hours each night! Children who lack enough sleep can be impulsive, hyperactive, and show signs of anger and even aggression.  Screen time also reduces physical activity levels and increases the level of the stress hormone cortisol.None of us are perfect and children are resilient! We can strengthen this resilience by promoting caring relationships, providing high yet attainable expectations, and allowing children autonomy.Last but not least, take care of yourself! The above information also applies to adults. We are one of the biggest influences on children. So, please take care this holiday season and enjoy time with your family and friends! *Peterson, K. C. (2017). Promoting the Social Emotional Development of Young Children. [PowerPoint Slides].