When it comes to children, I always use a lead-by-example approach. For example, when teaching stress management strategies such as breathwork, I may say something like: "You know what, I am having some big feelings inside, I think I need to breath. Would you mind doing it with me?" or "Wow, those are some big feelings. When that happens to me, I take some breaths like this and I really feel better. We could try it together". Through these statements, I am normalizing the child's experience without invalidating their emotions, I'm confirming that it is normal to experience certain emotions because even adults do, and I am taking myself out of an authority position and leveling with the child. This approach allows the child to have control over the interaction and the perceived control typically results in increased receptiveness to interventions, in my experience.
Working with children in therapy offers clinicians an awesome opportunity to have a positive impact on a child’s mental health. Not only can a clinician assist a child in managing the stressors in their lives and help them to heal from traumas they may have suffered, but the clinician can also help to shape the child’s perspective and understanding of what mental health is. Building rapport and establishing a feeling of emotional safety is vital to the work we do with everyone who comes to therapy – especially children. A clinician can approach the topic of mental health in a direct and straightforward manner, identifying all the words we tend to associate with mental health, using easy to understand/age-appropriate language, and using the child’s own vernacular to open up a discussion that helps to normalize the mental health issue the child is experiencing. Clinicians can engage in play and/or art activities with the child as they help the child to identify and understand their mental health. Clinicians can also assist the child to understand that their mental health is something that they experience - it is not something that defines who they are.
I like to approach the topic of mental health with children by talking about being the boss of our own feelings and behaviors. This lands well with kids because they like being the boss of themselves. They easily understand that sometimes their feelings are in charge and might lead to behaviors they regret. When the child is the boss, they can notice their emotions and make decisions with that awareness. Sometimes the decision might be to use a coping "tool" to calm or regulate their emotions instead of blowing up, for example.
This can be a very difficult balance to find with clients who are children. I tend to use a combination of Play therapy and DBT while focusing on emotion identification. I like to always keep in mind with clients who are children, I may not be doing all the work with them now and I may just be setting them up for success in the future. This success can come from skills they learn early on or becoming more in tune with their needs and emotions or even if they are more comfortable coming back to therapy as they get older. With any therapeutic strategy you are engaging the child with you want to break down the content and go very slowly. Most therapy concepts can be understood by children if we deliver them the right way and slowly so they can absorb them. This is extra helpful because the Psychoeducation can act as a preventive to future struggles.
Approaching mental health topics with children in a manner that's engaging and age-appropriate is crucial for building trust and understanding. Here are some approaches often used by therapy professionals: 1. **Use Play Therapy**: Engage children in play therapy where they can express themselves through toys, art, or games. This allows them to communicate their feelings in a non-threatening and natural way. 2. **Storytelling**: Use stories or books with characters that experience emotions similar to what the child might be feeling. This helps them relate to the characters and understand that it's normal to have different emotions. 3. **Visual Aids**: Utilize visual aids like drawings, diagrams, or charts to explain concepts such as emotions, coping skills, or the brain's function. Visuals can make abstract ideas more concrete and easier to grasp. 4. **Interactive Activities**: Incorporate interactive activities like role-playing, mindfulness exercises, or breathing techniques to teach children coping skills and emotional regulation strategies. 5. **Normalize Emotions**: Help children understand that it's okay to feel a range of emotions and that everyone experiences them. Validate their feelings and provide a safe space for them to express themselves without judgment. 6. **Use Age-Appropriate Language**: Avoid using complex or technical language. Use simple and clear language that children can understand. For example, instead of saying "anxiety," you might say "worry" or "nervous feelings." 7. **Encourage Questions**: Create an environment where children feel comfortable asking questions about mental health. Encourage curiosity and provide honest and age-appropriate answers to their inquiries. 8. **Involve Parents/Guardians**: Work closely with parents or guardians to ensure consistency in messaging and support at home. Provide them with resources and guidance on how to continue discussions about mental health with their child outside of therapy sessions. 9. **Tailor Approaches to Individual Needs**: Every child is unique, so tailor your approach based on their age, developmental stage, personality, and specific needs. Flexibility and adaptability are key in working with children. 10. **Empowerment**: Empower children by involving them in decision-making about their own mental health and well-being. Help them identify their strengths and develop resilience. By employing these approaches, therapy professionals can create a supportive and engaging