Children

Basic information about the impact of ADD and ADHD on the child and the potential emotional, social and family problems that may result.

Depression does not affect only adults. The pressures of school and growing up can be overwhelming and difficult for children to cope with successfully.  Depression in children can lead to loss of appetite, aches and pains, and lack of energy.

Every child misbehaves from time to time. This is always distressing to us as parents because we would all like to be perfect parents of perfect children! There are many reasons for a child’s misbehaviour, and many ways for parents to help the child improve.

Although separation and divorce can be the most painful events a family may ever experience, they may come as a welcome relief after a period of tension and conflict in a troubled marriage. However, the period of adjustment is a painful one too. As a parent, you must deal not only with your own confusion and pain but also the confusion and pain of your children. You will also worry about what the break-up will mean for their futures, how they will cope, and if they will still love you.

Self-esteem is the value we place on ourselves. It is the feeling we have about all the things we see ourselves to be. It is the knowledge that we are lovable, we are capable, and we are unique. Both adults and children benefit from good relationships, experiences and positive thinking. Many of the steps necessary for building a child’s self-esteem will also help you in developing and maintaining your own.

Almost all children can be frightened by the sound of thunder or scared in a dark room. With a little patience and understanding, you can usually help your children overcome these and other common childhood fears. However, as a parent, you are keenly aware that there are real dangers that threaten your children. While you are working to help your children get rid of some kinds of fear, you are also teaching certain other kinds of fear for their own protection.

This booklet was prepared as part of the Early Childhood Care and Mental Health Project, carried out by the Canadian Mental Health Association and the Hincks-Dellcrest Centre. The purpose of the project was to explore ways that the mental health of young children can be promoted in community-based child care centres. In this context, mental health promotion is seen as development of age-appropriate and culturally relevant life skills that benefit all children’s social and emotional development.