trenddjakarta.com, Jakarta. October 9, 2024 – According to a research by the UK National Centre for Social Research, 1 in 5 children, or 20%, are suspected of having mental health issues. Among these age groups, the highest prevalence is found in teenagers aged 17-19. Where around 23.3% are identified as having mental health problems. This number continues to rise as academic and social demands increase. A survey conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA) in 2023 revealed that 75% of parents reported their children experiencing excessive stress due to school pressure and extracurricular activities.
The Journal Frontiers in Psychology (2020) explains in “The Link Between Chronic Stress and Psychological Breakdown”. There is strong evidence showing that excessive and unmanaged stress can overwhelm an individual’s capacity. Ultimately leading to psychological disorders or burnout. These disorders are marked by cognitive, emotional, and physical fatigue, significantly disrupting daily functioning.
Therefore, it is crucial for parents to plan early prevention and intervention strategies to avoid negative impacts on their children’s mental health. One solution that can be implemented is involving children in Motoric skills training. Which not only improves physical health but also builds confidence and creativity.
Motoric skills training includes various physical activities involving large and small muscle movements. Such as jump rope, dancing, and even drawing and coloring. These activities not only stimulate physical development but also have a positive impact on children’s mental and emotional growth.
Fondy Prasetio, Headmaster of Cakap Kids Academy, explains, “In our teaching process, we create an environment where children not only learn academically but also hone their creative skills. This is our way of encouraging them to grow not just intellectually but also emotionally. So they can become stronger individuals in facing life’s challenges.”
It’s important for parents to realize that children need time and space to channel their energy productively. Motoric skills training can be an effective way to help them cope with external pressures. “We emphasize the importance of creativity and imagination as strong factors in supporting mental health. When children are given space to create, play, and develop ideas without limitations, not only do children exercise thinking skills but also discover ways to express emotions and manage stress. This helps them build mental resilience,” Fondy explained.
Some Motoric activities that can be done include painting or drawing. These activities develop fine Motoric skills and encourage children to express their imagination freely. Another activity is dancing, where rhythmic movements help children regulate their emotions and improve their mood. Light exercises, like running or playing ball, can boost mood and trigger the release of endorphins. Which bring positive energy and maintain mental health. Lastly, yoga for children is good for physical fitness that helps children learn relaxation techniques and emotional control.
Motoric skills activities can also support cognitive learning. Such as language acquisition—the concept that is applied at Cakap Kids Academy. By giving children the opportunity to be physically active through Motoric skills training, they benefit not only physically but also mentally. Which is crucial in preventing mental breakdowns at an early age.
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