Mental and Emotional Health

Parents of the 21st century often worry that a lot of old-fashioned convictions are lost and they are uncertain of the kind of morals, ambitions, and character the children will be having and the kind of world that awaits them as adults. Healthy mental and emotional development of children is an important goal of parenting. Parents should note that it is the first two to three years of life that children's personalities are being most actively molded by the attitudes of the parents or of the others who provided most the care of the baby. A baby who is cared for mainly by loving, enthusiastic parents, perhaps with the help of others, surges ahead. Parents should give their children their visible love, pride, and joy, even in tiny accomplishments, to foster emotional depth and keen intelligence.


To prepare parents for the tough job of raising mentally and emotionally healthy children, here are ways to address this responsibility.
 1. Nurture the child's self-esteem. Children start developing their sense of self as babies when they see themselves through their parent's eyes. The tone of voice, body language, and every expression are absorbed by them. The words and actions of parents affects their self-esteem more than anything else. Praising their accomplishments will make them feel proud, letting them do things independently will make them feel capable and strong. By contrast, belittling comments or comparing them unfavorably with others will make them feel worthless. Avoid making loaded statements or using words as weapons because they can damage children just as physical blows do. Choose words carefully and be compassionate. Let children know that everyone makes mistakes and that you still love them even when you don't love their behavior.
2. Catch you child being good.
3. Set limits and be consistent with your discipline.
4. Make time for your children
5. Be a good role model
6. Make communication a priority
7. Be flexible and willing to adjust parenting style
8. Show that your love is unconditional
9. Be ware of your own needs and limitation as parents.