Parenthood is a journey filled with both profound joy and inherent challenges.
Right!?
In a world where adults struggle more than ever with social media and mental health issues, it’s no wonder that we have anxious kids too.
How do we support our children, let them grow into resilient, confident adults and still protect them?
The bittersweet ache of watching our children grow and become independent is a universal experience, captured poignantly in films like The Wild Robot.
Have you seen it or read it yet?
I admit to bawling through half of it, feeling the grief of it all, as well as the reminders about why love might be worth it.
Building resilience in our families
It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices we make, the resilience we cultivate in our children, and the beautiful, messy interconnectedness of family. The film’s powerful message reminded me of a quote I found at the art museum recently: “The strength of who we are comes out when we are together, and we are nothing without each other.” It resonates deeply with the core of the parenting experience and my own soul.
Raising children well today
However, raising children in today’s world presents a unique set of complexities, particularly in the digital age. The Anxious Generation, though I’ve just begun reading it, has already sparked reflection on the delicate balance between protecting our children and fostering their independence.
The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness is a 2024 book by Jonathan Haidt which argues that the spread of smartphones, social media and overprotective parenting have led to a “rewiring” of childhood and a rise in mental illness.
So how do we equip them to navigate the real world while shielding them from its potential harms?
It’s a question I think many of us grapple with daily and there isn’t a right and wrong answer.
Setting tech boundaries for children
One of the most pressing concerns is the pervasive influence of technology. Feather Burkower’s provocative statement, “If you’re ready to end your child’s childhood, give them a device,” highlights the addictive nature of these tools and their potential impact on developing minds.
Setting healthy boundaries around technology is crucial, yet undeniably challenging. Children’s tech-savviness often outpaces our attempts to implement controls, requiring ongoing vigilance and open communication. It’s imperative that we monitor their online activity, not out of distrust, but out of a commitment to their well-being. The stories of young children encountering inappropriate content or experiencing online bullying underscore the importance of proactive engagement.
This digital landscape, coupled with increasing societal pressures, contributes to the rising concerns about youth mental health. The Surgeon General’s warnings, along with the ever-present stress experienced by parents, highlight the need for thoughtful strategies and support systems.
We must consider the potential consequences of constant connectivity and information overload, not only for our children but for ourselves as well. How can we cultivate presence and meaningful connection in a world saturated with distractions?
Resources like LetGrow.org offer valuable insights and practical tools for fostering independence and resilience in children. As parents, we must prioritize open conversations about the challenges we face, seeking support and sharing wisdom within our communities.
Navigating this complex terrain requires a collective effort, acknowledging the vulnerabilities and celebrating the triumphs along the way.
Audacious Therapy for Anxious Kids with Claire Eliassen, LPC
I specialize in supporting families and children. If this blog piece resonated with you here are some ways I could work with you:
- Individual therapy for children and adolescents: I provide a fun, safe and supportive space for young people to explore their anxieties, develop coping strategies, and navigate challenges related to social media, peer pressure, and academic stress. I have play therapy sessions for sensitive children and adolescents too.
- Parenting consultations focused on technology: Talk to me about developing your own set of family strategies for managing screen time, setting healthy boundaries, and building good communication about online activity. I can help navigate difficult conversations about online safety too.
- Raising resilient and independent children: Providing moms with tools and techniques to encourage age-appropriate independence, problem-solving skills, and coping mechanisms for anxiety.
If you’re looking for support in navigating these challenges, I’m here! Book a discovery call and together, we can explore strategies that work for you and your family, helping you create a nurturing environment where everyone, including you, can thrive.
Get in touch today
Recognizing that we don’t have it all figured out and that we could learn something new, or practice flexibility in the face of a challenge is courageous. It’s audacious!