Does your child tend to feel more stressed out in unfamiliar places? Perhaps a messy environment puts them on edge, while a clean one with soothing colors makes them feel at ease. Some environments are better for working in, while others are better for relaxing in. Put simply, our surroundings affect our children. How can you ensure that your home environment is one that is supportive for your kid? Here are five simple tips to create a balanced, calming space.
Establish Supportive Attitudes
When creating an open, supportive home environment for your child, it’s important to remember that the overall attitude in that environment is just as important as the physical aspects. Aim to make your home a place of encouragement—where family members celebrate each others’ successes, both big and small. Avoid passing judgement on one another, and instead listen to each other when times are tough. These attitudes will help your teen feel supported at home.
Fill Your Home With Motivational Messages
Display motivational images or affirmations in your home—mirrors and fridges are great places to put positive reminders. You can also work with your child (and your family as a whole) on setting goals, and then display these messages in a prominent place. This will help your child feel confident that they can be successful, which will motivate them to continue taking positive steps toward their goals.
Create a Personal Space
Another way you can help your teen feel comfortable and reassured is by creating a personal space for them. For larger families, this can be tough. It’s not uncommon for siblings to share rooms and everyone might feel as though others are always around. Even if it’s just a special corner of a shared bedroom, it’s important for a teen to have a place that they can call their own. Help them decorate it however they wish, and establish rules among siblings that they aren’t allowed to enter another’s personal space without permission. This simple act will help boost your child’s self-esteem as they feel empowered to be their own unique person with individual tastes.
Form a Study Area
A significant portion of a teen’s time is spent at school; supporting them in their academics is a crucial way to ensure they have a holistic, motivational environment. One way you can accomplish this is by setting up special study times and a study area. A place where a teen can work on their schoolwork will help them understand that learning is a priority. It’s also important that you’re available to assist them whenever possible or offer to get extra help if they need it.
Welcome Friends and Family
Don’t forget to include others! Opening up your home to your child’s friends demonstrates that you support their relationships, and inviting family members over shows your child the importance of staying connected with family. This serves as an example to your teen on how they can support others, which is a wonderful way to help them grow in their relationships.
Feature Photo: Creative Vix
