Self-esteem is key to success in many areas of your child’s life, including their overall happiness and fulfillment in relationships. The Child and Family Blog shares how the pandemic  deprived children of everyday experiences that normally build self-esteem. With the right supports and guidance your can help your child boost their self-esteem. Below are four considerations: 

In the past few weeks parents across Ontario have received their children’s report cards and many have also had individual parent teacher interviews. For some they are left with how to support their child after a concerning report card. Many kids may feel discouraged if they were trying their best. The pandemic brought many children’s mental health concerns, as well as academic challenges. As a parent you may be filled with multitude of emotions including frustration, helplessness and/or guilt. With the right supports your child can get back on track. Below are four considerations: 

Are you feeling worn out, maybe even burnt-out? Feeling drained? You are not alone according to the American Psychological Association nearly 60% of people reported negative impacts on work-related stress, including lack of energy and motivation, 32% reported emotional exhaustion, and 44% reported physical fatigue. The first step is to acknowledge what you are feeling, name and notice it. With the right supports and considerations people can refuel and recharge to a greater place of energy. Here are some considerations below.

​In the past year I have had many people share with me that they have felt socially anxious when they never struggled socially prior to the pandemic. I felt inclined to write about this as some may have been able to overcome this new found challenge as things have been opening up more and more since March. While others may be left not able to shake the social anxiety feeling. You are not alone as many are continuing to struggle with this, know with the right support and plan you can bounce back. Find below some considerations:

Are you wondering what the connection could be between eye health and mental health? Research has shown that vision impairment has an impact on children’s mental health. According to Optometry Times, with proper eye care and availability of eye glasses, a child’s ability to learn increases and rates of anxiety and depression decrease. Research from the American Academy of Ophthalmology found that vision impairment was linked to an increase in symptoms of anxiety and depression. Please find below some considerations to support your child’s eye health: