Many people believe that children are happy as long as they can eat well and sleep well. However, experts believe that happiness is much more than just temporary pleasure, and also includes learning how to face and resolve negative emotions. The "2023 Children's Happiness Index" survey pointed out that Taiwan's children are generally happy, but if you want to take their happiness to a higher level, Professor Zeng Wenzhi of Tsinghua University has proposed six secret techniques. Parents must not miss it!
According to the survey results, Taiwan's children's happiness index is as high as 75 points (out of 100 points), indicating that the overall performance is "happy". Among them, "Current Affairs/Life Education" has the highest score of 80 points, followed by "Mental Health" (75 points), "Education/Upbringing" (74 points) and "Physical Health" (72 points). However, in the "Digital Life Index", Taiwanese children only scored 71 points, slightly lower than other aspects. This reminds parents to pay more attention to their children's use of 3C products to avoid over-dependence and addiction. In addition, the issue of poor exercise habits also requires more attention to help children stay healthy.
Six Keys to Improving Happiness: From Overcoming Fear to Freedom to Explore
Although the overall happiness index is not low, Professor Zeng Wenzhi of Tsinghua University believes that children's happiness does not only come from happiness, but also through the growth process of overcoming difficulties and emotional management. Here are six keys for parents to help their children grow into happier individuals:
- Overcome fear
Fear is a big blocker to happiness, especially when a child is faced with anxiety or fear. Teaching them how to calm themselves, such as practicing deep breathing, can effectively help children overcome their fears and find inner peace. - Release sadness
Everyone will be sad sometimes, especially children. Parents should teach them how to reflect on their emotions and find appropriate ways to release negative energy, such as expressing themselves through drawing and writing diaries, to avoid long-term accumulation of emotions. - Transform anger
Children will inevitably feel angry in life, and it is important to help them learn how to turn their anger into strength to move forward. During an emotional episode, you can calm your child down and then discuss with them alternative ways of coping. - Let go and play
Games are not only a source of happiness for children, but also a way to explore the world. Allowing them to play freely, experience a variety of novel things, and build confidence in play is an important step in improving their happiness. - Give care
Caring is the foundation of happiness. No matter whether a child encounters difficulties or succeeds, parents' companionship and support are indispensable. Give them enough love and care so that the children can feel the warmth and security of the family. - Free to explore
Children should have the freedom to explore the world and even get out of their comfort zones. This not only helps them discover their interests and potential, but also learns how to deal with unknown challenges and become brave explorers in the process.
Happiness not only improves children's self-esteem and self-confidence, but also promotes motivation for active learning and growth. Chen Youda, an attending physician at the Department of Family Medicine at Taipei Medical University, also emphasized that happiness and emotion management are too abstract, but through specific steps and techniques, it can be easier for children to understand and learn. From identifying emotions and reflecting on causes to problem-solving, these skills not only help children face future challenges but also strengthen their mental health.
Happiness can bring children self-esteem, self-confidence and trust, while promoting active learning and development. (Photo / provided by Heho)
The role of parents is particularly critical in this process. If there are negative situations such as domestic violence and neglect in the family, it will inevitably have a profound impact on the child's happiness. Therefore, parents must pay attention to the importance of family functions to their children's growth and create a good family atmosphere so that their children can grow up happily and healthily.
Happiness is not only the cornerstone of children's growth, but also improves immunity and makes the body healthier. When children feel happy, they are more willing to care about others. This transmission of love and care will form a circle of happiness and affect the entire society. Zhou Dayao, chairman of the Family Support Foundation, reminded us that although the happiness index has increased, there are still many rural and disadvantaged groups who have not felt these improvements. Therefore, in the future, we need to work harder to reach these groups of people with resources so that all children in Taiwan can feel happy. This is real progress.
