As educators and parents, we understand how important self confidence is in a child’s development. We strive to have a healthy self esteem ourselves to overcome challenges, accomplish our goals, and establish peer acceptance. Building that confidence at a young age allows children to be the best they can be at home, at school, and in their community. Active play is a fantastic way to help them do just that. 

What are some of the ways active play builds confidence in young children?

Do you remember your parents kicking you outside during the summer to go run around the neighborhood? You’d come home at the end of the day sunkissed, a little bit sticky, and maybe even covered in dirt, but you were happy and fell into bed exhausted but ready to do it again the next day. I don’t feel like that happens as much anymore, whether for safety issues or because we lead such busy lives; our kids just aren’t spending as much time outdoors anymore.  

Nurturing mental health at a young age is essential in creating a foundation of stability that supports all other aspects of human development such as forming friendship and the ability to cope with challenges and adversity. It also plays into achievement in school, work and the community long term.  By starting to teach healthy coping mechanisms and learning to identify emotions at an early age we can set up our children for bright futures. We have a few simple steps to help begin the journey to mental health.