Fun activities for children

Tips by Anne-Sophie Dybdal, Save the Children Denmark Child Psychologist 

Loneliness has no face, no age and no colour. We can all experience it in our lifetime, in fact 1 in 5 people experience it. And with this week being mental health awareness week we want to share our tips on how to beat loneliness:

THE IMPORTANCE OF COMBATTING LONLINESS:

Loneliness leads to lack of self-confidence, low self-esteem, and depression, leading to a negative spiral of feeling; “No-one wants to be my friend.”

There is a taboo around loneliness, and children and young people seldom say directly they feel they do not have friends, or feel left out.

RED FLAGS TO WATCH OUT FOR:

1. Lack of social connection:
   Though it is normal that some children enjoy their own company and are less extroverted than others, having at least one close friend is important.
   
   
2. Low mood and lack of interest:
   If a child seems depressed and has lost interest in interacting with others or activities they used to enjoy.

The big one... SOCIAL MEDIA:

Social media provides opportunities to interact, but it should not replace face to face contact.

It is advisable to set limits on social media use and ensure appropriate kid block functions. When children see others gaining lots of likes on social media it can increase an already lonely child’s feeling of inadequacy.

Which is why, now more than ever, support is needed for young people. So here are our tips on combatting loneliness:

MINDSET TIPS

1. Know that you are ok.
2. It is not your fault.
3. Loneliness is not permanent it can change.
4. Try not to compare yourself to others. It’s ok, to take a step back or reduce your social media usage if you feel you need to.
5. Think about what your strengths are. What skills come naturally to you? What do you enjoy? What hobbies do you love or are passionate about?

TIPS FOR PARENTS/GUARDIANS:

1. Be attentive to your children during conversation. Studies show that looking at your phone when talking to your child makes them feel ignored and that you are not interested. 
2. Help your child find their strengths, tell them what they are good at and give positive feedback.
3. Help your child make friends, it can be hard so suggest some ways they can do this.
4. For younger children: help make your child a good friend! Through play and fun activities with you, let them practice the social skills needed to make friends such as the ability to compromise, solve conflict, share ideas, use their imagination and having fun together.
5. Encourage and reassure your child, sharing positive feedback and compliments! Letting them know they are valued, appreciated, loved by you and that you’re proud of them!

Want more tips on combatting loneliness? Watch this Mental Health Awareness week video by NHS.

Try our relaxation tips

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