Wellbeing
With many families working and schooling from home, feelings of isolation, frustration and desperation have risen among parents and children.
Helping your kids navigate uncertain times As families continue to navigate these challenges, the mental health of children has been a topic of conversation among parents across Toronto. We spoke with Dr. Joanna Henderson, Director of the Margaret and Wallace McCain Centre for Child, Youth & Family Mental Health at CAMH, about the best strategies for supporting our kids in these uncertain times.
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EastTO Magazine
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How do I know what my child needs right now? JH: The needs of children and youth right now will differ by age group. Younger children are emotionally close to parents and caregivers, and are highly affected by how the adults around them are coping. Parents have an important role to play in modeling behaviour for their children. It can be hard to take the time for yourself but if you’re not sleeping well or eating well it can be hard to support other people. Younger kids are less likely to verbalize their needs and emotions than older kids. Look for changes in behaviour like changes in sleep, responses to encouragement or rules and emotional regulation — like crying or angrier outbursts.
