Even when things are really challenging, there’s always some way to find a glimmer of hope. For me, the path forward involves embracing creativity. Whether writing, listening to music, or exploring the beauty of nature, creativity buoys my spirits and brightens my outlook.
I’ve written about this optimistic, strength-oriented approach elsewhere. (For example, in my articles “Being Consciously Upbeat,” and “An Attitude of Gratitude,” as well as within many pieces that I’ve written over the past several years for First Time Parent Magazine.)
How do you and your children deal with challenges?
One tactic for surmounting obstacles is to think back upon difficult moments and to figure out how you transformed previous tense or tough circumstances into manageable or positive situations. It makes sense to reflect—and to take note of your thoughts.
For instance, what kinds of strategies have worked in the past? Perhaps taking one or more breaks, or garnering support from friends or extended family, or using problem-solving methods that have proven to be successful. Once you become aware of your strengths and skills, you can develop and tap into them.
STRATEGIES!
Granted, it’s not always easy to perceive challenges as opportunities that foster growth and enjoyment. (And this can be especially true for young people!) So, here are seven tips to help families develop positive and proactive perspectives. The ideas in bold italics were shared in a communiqué by Alma Galvan (who hosted a recent ADHD parenting event during which I was interviewed). I’ve subsequently expanded upon some of the ideas by adding the “how” factor here—that is, practical suggestions for actualizing each point and confronting challenges that occur within the course and context of family life, and during daily interactions among parents and kids.
- Learn from every experience. Realistically, experiences may be happy, sad, inside, outside, short, lengthy, complex, simple, and so on… Pay attention to how they make you and your children feel, what’s different, and what might be potentially foundational for building new experiences, relationships, and ideas. Visualize positive outcomes!
- Face challenges with resilience and patience. Resolve to be determined, and to take it step by step—over time. Think of difficulties as times of learning, innovative problem-solving, and grace. Proactively demonstrate this way of thinking, and chat about it, too.
- Care for your body and mind. Regularly assess, monitor, and address your needs, as well as those of your kids. Looking after emotional, physical, and social health helps people stay strong.
- Handle conflicts calmly. Maintain composure, without getting upset. This doesn’t mean without emotion, but it does mean with measured and sensible responses. Arguing is counterproductive. Instead, think astutely and constructively, and be reasonable. Show children how they can learn to think—and act—sensibly, too.
- Value and offer emotional support. Support may take the form of encouragement, reassurance, praise, suggestions, or even just a smile or high-five. It can be mutually empowering! Receiving support is enabling. Giving can facilitate a synergy and a fulfilling give-and-take dynamic with others. Appreciate this, and be generous about it.
- Stay open to new perspectives. Be receptive to possibilities such as considering fresh ideas and creative avenues, and be willing to try things that may be unfamiliar or off the grid. Help children see the value of stretching comfort zones.
- Celebrate growth. There’s a sense of achievement in experiencing progress—even small accomplishments. Take pride in those. Believe in yourself, convey faith in your children’s abilities, and encourage kids to believe in themselves, too. (Check out this Blog: Yes I Can: Eight Ways Kids Can Confront Challenges—written for them!)
LAST WORDS
“Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see a shadow.”
~ Helen Keller
Life is complicated, but there’s always a ray of light, new opportunities, and helpful knowledge to discover. (For example, for additional material, scroll down under the heading Children’s Well-being on my Blog Page and on my Resources Page.)
May silver linings be abundant, and shine brightly!
AUTHOR’S NOTE
To see an overview of the interview I refer to in this article, click here. For information on embracing creativity (inspired by that interview), I invite you to read my blog, Creativity: Tips from the Toolbox.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Joanne Foster is an award-winning author of several books, including IGNITE YOUR IDEAS: CREATIVITY FOR KIDS—2025 Bronze Medalist, Moonbeam Children’s Book Award (Nonfiction Chapter Book), and Winner, American Book Fest’s 2025 Best Book Award (Children’s Nonfiction). Watch for her exciting new book coming in 2026! And, for plentiful resources, go to https://joannefoster.ca
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Cover image by Norman Milwood
