If parenting had a rulebook, “keep them alive and thriving” would be right at the top. But wellness isn’t just about keeping kids fed and clothed, it’s about setting them up to flourish physically, emotionally, and socially.
Professor Eileen Africa, wellness expert and kid-whisperer for children’s wellbeing, reminds us that wellness isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach – it’s a layered, ongoing process that helps kids grow into well-rounded, individuals. So, how do we nurture wellness without turning into exhausted, overcommitted parents?
“Wellness is all about healthy habits – not just the occasional carrot stick or one-off yoga session, but an approach that helps kids feel good in their bodies and minds every day. Think of it as little daily actions that build resilience, confidence, and overall wellbeing,” explains Professor Africa.
Here’s a quick look at the six dimensions of wellness that help kids grow into happy, balanced humans:
- Emotional wellness: Life throws curveballs (meltdowns over the wrong colour cup, anyone?), but emotional wellness helps kids build resilience and self-worth. Supporting them through challenges, validating their feelings, and teaching stress-management techniques (like deep breaths instead of dramatic floor flops) make a world of difference.
- Cognitive wellness: From learning to ride a bike to acing math problems, kids thrive when they’re given opportunities to grow their minds. Encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning helps them build confidence in their abilities.
- Social wellness: Ever noticed how friendships can teach kids more life lessons than a classroom? Professor Africa says, “Social wellness is about building meaningful connections, learning empathy, and managing relationships in a healthy way. Whether it’s teamwork in soccer or navigating playground negotiations, social skills shape kids for life.”
- Spiritual wellness: No, this doesn’t mean enrolling them in daily meditation – spiritual wellness is about helping kids develop their sense of purpose, inner peace, and values. Whether that’s through gratitude, mindfulness, or cultural traditions, it gives them grounding in an often-chaotic world.
- Physical wellness: Movement matters! Keeping kids active – not just through formal sports, but everyday fun like biking, swimming, or dancing around the living room – helps them stay healthy, manage stress, and boost confidence. “Regular physical activity isn’t just about fitness; it impacts mental and emotional wellness too.”
- Environmental wellness: A clean, safe, and stimulating environment supports kids’ growth. Teaching them small sustainability habits – like recycling, spending time in nature, or reducing plastic use – helps shape their awareness and appreciation of the world around them.
Professor Africa highlights that a balanced diet and regular physical activity are key pillars of children’s wellbeing. Proper nutrition fuels their energy, supports brain function, and even enhances academic performance (yes, good food can help with those homework blues). And getting kids moving every day – whether through structured sports or spontaneous play – has massive benefits for their physical, mental, and social health.
Remember, there’s no such thing as perfect parenting. If your child is mostly thriving, navigating their emotional GPS, and getting their wiggles out (with a side of broccoli and the occasional tantrum), you’re on the right track.
“Parents play a huge role in shaping wellness not by being perfect, but by offering guidance, encouragement, and support. Positive reinforcement, a strong parent-child relationship, and creating a safe space for kids to explore their interests all go a long way in helping them grow into resilient, well-adjusted individuals.
“Start small. Encourage wellness in ways that fit your family, whether that’s more time outdoors, family dinners, or simple conversations about feelings. Thriving > surviving, every time.”