In today’s fast-paced world, it can feel like children are growing up far too quickly. Parents, guardians, or educators naturally want to protect their innocence and ensure they enjoy their childhood thoroughly. But why is this so important? Allowing children to mature too early can lead to unnecessary exposure to adult concerns like body image issues, early sexual activity, and other challenges that can impact their emotional and mental well-being, making therapy for children an essential resource when such problems arise.

Here are my top tips for helping children remain children for as long as possible, reducing the need for therapy for children in the future.

1. **Encourage Imaginative Play**
Imaginative play is an excellent way for children to explore the world creatively. The beauty of this type of play is that it doesn’t require expensive toys or resources – it’s all about the imagination. Whether pretending to be superheroes, running a make-believe shop, or building forts, these activities help children rehearse real-life skills and express their inner world. As adults, we can join in to encourage and validate their creativity, which can also be beneficial in therapeutic settings if they ever need therapy for children.

2. **Choose Practical and Age-Appropriate Clothing**
Children should dress like children. Avoid clothing that restricts their ability to play, climb, and explore. The focus should be on comfort and practicality rather than trends that make them look older than they are. Promoting clothes suited for puddle-jumping, tree-climbing, and messy play helps reinforce the idea that childhood is about fun and exploration.

3. **Monitor Screen Time and Internet Use**
Modern technology is a double-edged sword. While it offers educational opportunities, it also exposes children to inappropriate content. Keep computers in family spaces and use parental controls to restrict what they can access. Be mindful of what they’re watching on platforms like YouTube, and ensure their video games are age-appropriate. Games designed for older audiences can promote aggressive behaviours in younger children, so stick to the recommended age ratings, as this can help mitigate issues that may require therapy for children later on.

4. **Limit TV and Media Exposure**
The news and even daytime TV shows can sometimes expose children to frightening or inappropriate content. Keep the TV off when it’s not being actively watched, and when it is on, ensure the programming is suitable. This helps protect children from unnecessary anxiety or a skewed perception of the world.

5. **Set Clear Boundaries Around Social Media**
Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook have age restrictions for a reason. Children under the required age should not have accounts, as these platforms expose them to risks like online predators and inappropriate content. Resist the pressure to give in to “pester power” and explain why these boundaries exist.

6. **Be Mindful of Music Choices**
Popular music often contains explicit lyrics or inappropriate themes. If children listen to music in a shared environment, ensure it’s a clean, family-friendly version. Even with radio edits, some songs may have adult themes requiring explanation or reinterpretation. I remember turning “Your Sex Is On Fire” into “Your Socks Are On Fire” to keep things light-hearted and age-appropriate.

7. **Promote Positive Body Image**
Avoid compliments focusing solely on physical attributes, such as “You look slim” or “You’re so pretty.” Instead, praise their efforts and choices, such as “That colour looks great on you.” This shifts the focus away from their appearance and fosters a healthier self-image, which is crucial for emotional health and can decrease the likelihood of needing therapy for children in the future.

8. **Select Age-Appropriate Toys**
Toys should encourage creativity, imagination, and fun – not introduce adult concepts. If you find a game or toy that raises an eyebrow about childhood sexualisation, it’s possible that you’re not old-fashioned but that childhood is being sped up. Children’s games and toys don’t need to be sexually provocative to be engaging. As parents and caregivers, we must be discerning about the products we allow in our children’s lives.

By making thoughtful decisions and fostering a nurturing environment, we can help children enjoy their formative years without unnecessary pressure to grow up too quickly. Let’s cherish and protect their innocence because childhood is precious and doesn’t last forever. Additionally, being proactive about their well-being can help reduce the need for therapy for children, allowing them to thrive emotionally and mentally.

By Gemma Bailey
www.NLP4Kids.org/gemma-bailey