Building Resilience in Children by Blessing Epum

Dear Educators and Parents,

We are happy to introduce the theme of the month, Building Resilience in Children

Below is a short write-up you could share in the classroom or at home to explain the concept of resilience and how it can be applied in their daily lives.

UNDERSTANDING RESILIENCE: What is it and why is it important?

The Little Tree's Stormy Day

Ava was a little tree in a big forest. One day, a strong storm hit, shaking her leaves and branches. Ava felt scared and wanted to break. But her wise old friend, Oak, said, "Ava, it's okay to feel scared. This storm will pass."

Ava took deep "breaths" and focused on her roots. She felt the storm's energy but didn't break. When it passed, Ava felt proud. "I did it!" she said.

Oak smiled, "That's resilience, Ava! It's feeling the emotions but choosing to stay strong."

Ava learned she could handle tough times. When her friend, Flower, wilted, Ava helped her express feelings: "I'm sad you're not blooming." Flower felt heard and soon bloomed brighter.

Lessons:

- Resilience means handling tough times with courage

- Expressing feelings helps build resilience

- Supporting friends builds strength

HELPING KIDS RECOGNISE AND EXPRESS THEIR FEELINGS

1. Name the feeling: Help kids identify emotions (e.g., "You seem angry/sad/happy")

2. Validate their emotions: Show understanding (e.g., "It's okay to feel that way")

3. Encourage expression: Use words, drawings, or play to express feelings

4. Model healthy expression: Show kids how to express emotions in a healthy way

5. Create a feelings chart: Visualise emotions to help kids identify and express feelings

6. Active listening: Pay attention to what they say and show you care

7. Teach emotional regulation: Help kids manage emotions (e.g., deep breathing, counting)

Dear Parents and Educators, did you find any of these points useful? Let's see your comments and reactions in the chat. Thank you.