How to support your child’s mental well-being: 7 tips from UNICEF

What happened: UNICEF has released guidance on promoting children’s mental health and emotional resilience.

Why it matters now: Rising stress, screen time, and social pressures are affecting children’s mental well-being worldwide.

What changes for people: Parents and caregivers can adopt practical strategies to nurture emotional health from an early age.

Who is affected: Children, parents, educators, and child care professionals.

Children’s mental health is increasingly recognized as critical to lifelong development. UNICEF has outlined seven actionable ways to help children feel safe, supported, and emotionally strong amid today’s pressures.

1. Prioritize safe and supportive relationships

Children thrive when they feel loved and secure. Regular attention, listening without judgment, and emotional availability strengthen trust and self-esteem.

2. Encourage play and creativity

Play is not just fun—it builds problem-solving, social skills, and resilience. Creative activities like drawing, music, or imaginative games help children express emotions safely.

3. Maintain routines and predictability

Structured daily routines provide stability and security, reducing anxiety. This includes sleep schedules, mealtimes, and homework routines.

4. Promote physical activity

Exercise improves mood, sleep, and focus. Encouraging outdoor play, sports, or family walks can reduce stress and build healthy coping habits.

5. Foster emotional literacy

Teach children to name and manage feelings. Use language like “I see you’re frustrated” or “It’s okay to feel sad” to help them identify and regulate emotions.

6. Limit screen time and online exposure

Excessive digital use can affect sleep and social skills. Set boundaries and encourage offline activities that engage creativity, communication, and movement.

7. Seek professional support when needed

If a child shows persistent anxiety, withdrawal, or mood changes, professional guidance from a child psychologist or counsellor is important. Early intervention improves outcomes.

Major outcome: Following these strategies strengthens resilience, emotional health, and overall well-being in children.