Healthy Mental & Emotional Development: 4 Key Building Blocks

The following tips are provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics. If you have questions or concerns about your child's mental health, be sure to talk to your child's pediatrician. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Kids First Pediatrics: Raleigh, (919) 250- 3478 or Clayton, (919) 267-1499.

"Positive experiences and safe, stable relationships help children develop skills they need to manage their emotions, solve problems, communicate and develop close connections with others. The process of gaining these and other critical skills is called healthy mental and emotional development." From HealthyChildren.org

1. Safe, stable, nurturing relationships in the family

Relational health is the ability to form safe, stable and nurturing relationships. Relational health is essential to healthy mental and emotional development. When children feel safe, secure and well connected with their caregivers, they learn to trust others, make friends and manage their feelings.

2. Open communication

Feeling free to express their thoughts and feelings helps kids process emotions in healthy ways. Open communication also strengthens parent-child bonds.

3. Learning to understand & manage emotions

When kids learn to understand and manage their emotions, they can better avoid being overwhelmed by them.

4. Social relationships at school or in the community

Developing strong, healthy social relationships provides a support system for your child's mental and emotional development.

There are detailed tips and tricks available at Healthy Mental & Emotional Development: 4 Key Building Blocks

 *This article is informational and is not a substitute for medical attention or information from your provider.