any parents worry more about their children's physical health than their emotional health. But kids' emotional well-being is no less important than, say, making sure they get their immunizations, says Dr. Maryam Rezai, a psychiatrist on the medical staff at Children's Medical Center of Dallas. "No matter what else is going on in your life, take time each day and engage totally and completely with your child in activity that's driven by your child," Dr. Rezai says.
By supporting kids' emotional health, you'll nurture their spirits. That can influence everything from self-esteem to their ability to form relationships.
Take baby's cues:
During the first two months of a child's life, heed the infant's behavior. Children have different cries and ways of expressing hunger, distress, boredom, displeasure and pleasure.
Give toddlers time:
Try to spend at least 30 to 60 undivided minutes each day with your child. Toddlers need to feel important to their parents.
Be there for school kids:
Be available each day so the youngster can talk. Entering kindergarten and "graduating" from each phase of school are important emotional landmarks for children. School can unearth a host of emotional issues, from fitting in and making friends, to meeting academic and social expectations in school and at home.
Share your experiences:
Talk about your own experiences as a teen-ager or those of friends or family members. Teens separate from parents emotionally. Though it may not seem teens want anything to do with you, they still need you. Stay on the edges of your child's life while watching for signs of distress, such as falling grades; truancy; substance abuse; social, emotional or physical withdrawal; and risky sexual activity.
