Creative Child November 2019 | Page 26

editor’s choice The Mental Environment 1. Protect your children as best as you can from things which are not age appropriate. This means mature television shows, video games, or movies with themes their young minds may not be ready for. This is increasingly difficult in our digital age, but remember that everything your child consumes has an impact. 2. Be a role model! As much as you can show them how to live joyfully, laugh loudly, bounce back, show compassion, be optimistic, positive, and happy is as much as they will be able to do the same. 3. Ensure your child gets the proper nutrition, sleep, and exercise as these affect mental health. Balance is difficult to achieve. It seems children are either running themselves ragged with after-school activities, or they’re spending too much time sitting and staring at screens. Aim for a healthy lifestyle for yourself and your children will benefit and follow suit. 25