5 Ways for Parents and Children to Build Resilience in the New Year

For a moment, picture the drab, grey of a snowless winter day. Perhaps you’re walking outside in the cold, surrounded by the dull pallor of low, grey clouds, beige grass, salty roads, and concrete. It feels heavy, stagnant, and endless. 

Now, imagine looking up. Past the horizon, beyond the clouds, you catch a glimpse of the sky. It’s just noon, and suddenly, the clouds begin to shift. Subtle shades of blue emerge, breaking through. A burst of light, edged in golden hues, sweeps through, and the sky transforms. Though the day remains mostly grey, that hint of blue and light lifts your spirits. 

This image is a reminder of resilience—the ability to persevere through the challenges of life. Resilience helps us navigate difficult times, from life-altering events like loss or illness to the everyday frustrations of leaky faucets and traffic jams. But too often, resilience is framed as simply “grinding through” or “toughing it out.” 

As we begin 2025, let’s expand our understanding of resilience. Instead of viewing it as endurance alone, let’s see it as an opportunity to adapt, grow, and find moments of light and connection, even during hard times. Here are some tips:  

Building Resilience for Children 

Children, especially those with special needs or who’ve experienced adverse childhood events, benefit greatly from learning resilience. It’s not just about surviving difficulties—it’s about finding the tools to thrive. Here are five ways to help: 

1. Provide Predictable Routines: Children thrive on consistency. Reliable routines give a sense of security and help manage uncertainty. 
2. Build Emotional Vocabulary: Help children identify and express their emotions. Tools like emotion charts or books can help.  
3. Create Safe Spaces for Expression: Encourage children to express themselves through play, art, or conversation. This helps them process emotions and develop coping mechanisms. 
4. Strengthen Connections: Foster trust and deep relationships with caregivers, teachers, or therapists. Secure attachments form the foundation for resilience. 
5. Incorporate Movement and Mindfulness: Activities like kids’ yoga, dance, or sensory play help children regulate emotions, teaching focus and how to self-soothe. 

Building Resilience for Parents 

Resilience is just as important for parents, especially when supporting children through tough times. Here are five tips to help parents nurture their own resilience: 

1. Focus on Relationship-Building: Take time to connect with your child each day, even if it’s just a few minutes of undivided attention, or sharing their favorite cartoon.  
2. Practice Self-Compassion: Acknowledge your feelings and challenges without judgment. Be kind to yourself as you navigate parenting’s, and life’s, ups and downs. 
3. Seek Support Networks: Connect with other parents or support groups. Sharing experiences with a community can reduce feelings of isolation. 
4. Take Care of Your Own Mental Health: Prioritize activities that recharge you, like exercise, therapy, or simply a walk outdoors. Your well-being directly impacts your ability to support your child. 
5. Set Realistic Expectations: Let go of perfection. Celebrate small victories and progress for both yourself and your child. 

As we face the challenges of winter and the new year, resilience reminds us that light can break through the clouds, even on the greyest days. For both children and parents, resilience isn’t just about enduring; it’s about finding strength, growth, and connection in the process. At St. David’s Center, we’re here to support families on this journey. Let’s embrace the opportunities that 2025 brings and celebrate each step forward together.