The true meaning of innocence perhaps can be seen in a child. No matter what the situation is, a smile of a child can melt our hearts. Hence, it is extremely painful to see a child in pain or fear. Being adults it is our priority to make them feel secured. One of the reasons, which triggers the emotions of helplessness and trauma in modern life, is violence. Kids are exposed to a lot of aggression and gory stories, which they easily find in the media or even in their surroundings. Therefore, it is imperative as parents to explain the devastating consequences of violence and ways to safeguard oneself from it. Very often, children do not understand the aggressive behavior of people and it leads to misconceptions about it. If parents provide the right information on it then it clarifies lot many doubts of the young mind.
We definitely desire for our children an idealistic world where there is only peace and love but sadly, we cannot have it. Hence, the only solution is to make our children aware and help them cope with the violent situations in a smart and intelligent manner.
1. Talk to kids regularly and keep them away from negativity
The first thing that parents have to do is to bond with the child, to understand his feelings and his reactions to violent situations. You need to talk to your child everyday to know if he is experiencing any form of violence in his school or even take his opinion on any aggressive issues. It might be that your child is not able to handle the bully at school or is even puzzled at the recent death of his relative in a blast. You just need to reassure him that bad forces will be there and the challenge is to remain good amidst all negatives. He has to keep his cool and avoid any conflict with boys who tend to bully. Your child needs to know that you are always there in case he is not able to handle things on his own.
2. Cognitive behavior therapy
At times, children who witness incidents of violence may experience depression and have difficulty in leading a normal life. In such cases, the guardians need to be extra careful and monitor the activities of the child and know his difficulties. If the child has any fear or difficulty in socializing with people after he has gone through any violence, then a particular method named “cognitive behavior therapy” is most suitable. Cognitive behavior therapists detect the problem areas of the child and work upon it through various techniques. Through this method, the child comes to term with reality and gains confidence to face any situation. The role of parents are no less here as they have to constantly support the child, know about their feelings and encourage them always.
3. Monitor TV watching
Kids tend to imitate elders and when they see an interesting character in the media destroying everything, and exhibiting bravery, they fall for it. Parents need to explain to kids that this is fiction and not reality. In certain cases, you need to limit TV viewing and even decide shows, which can be viewed by them. You should not tolerate any misbehavior of your child and constantly remind him to calm down.
4. Be a role model
Kids always follow their parents so if you are not able to handle a tough situation in a cool manner then you cannot expect the same from your child. Kids often resort to aggressive behavior when they see that things are not going according to their wishes. Parents need to be firm and tell them that whatever the circumstances are, he needs to keep his cool and think of peaceful alternatives to solve his problems.
4. Use the aggression in productive ways
Creative activities and sports work wonders for an aggressive child. It is a kind of detoxification of the mind for a child. Whether it is playing with colors or playing in the field, the child releases his energy in a positive manner. Deep breathing and meditation is also an amazing way to strengthen the mind and control oneself. These techniques help the child to focus on his energies and utilize it in a constructive manner. A constant touch with nature and its beauty can also promote the feelings of gentleness and love.
Childhood is the most amazing phase of life and the harmful consequences of violence should not affect it. The child has the right to a happy and carefree life and we should ensure that he gets it.
