Mental Health & Wellbeing

The Power of a Positive Mindset

The way we think can have a big impact on how we feel and how we behave which directly impacts our mental health. At school, children face many situations that can bring up different emotions, from feeling left out in the playground to being disappointed when things don’t go their way. Helping children learn to flip their thinking can support their mental health, build resilience and help them navigate these everyday challenges.

It is important to understand that positive thinking doesn’t mean we have to be happy all the time. It is okay to feel sad, angry, worried or disappointed. These feelings are a normal part of life, and it is important that we allow our children opportunities to express them. Flipping our thinking is about recognising that there may be another way to look at a situation, rather than automatically assuming the worst.

How we think influences how we feel, and how we feel influences how we act.

For example, imagine a child sees a group of friends looking in their direction while playing in the yard.

Thought 1: “They’re looking at me and talking about me. They don’t want me around.”Feeling: Angry, embarrassed or upset.Action: The child might yell at their friends, walk away or refuse to speak to them.

Thought 2: “They might be looking at me because they want to ask me to play. I could go over and see.”Feeling: Hopeful or curious.Action: The child might approach the group and ask, “Can I play too?”

The situation hasn’t changed, but the way the child thinks about it can lead to a different feeling and response. Of course, the group may not always respond positively, and the child might still feel disappointed. However, by considering another possibility, they have given themselves a chance to work towards a positive outcome.

How can we help children flip their thinking?

At home and at school, we can encourage children to pause and consider their thoughts before reacting.

Acknowledge the feeling. “I can see that you’re upset. It’s okay to feel that way.”

Explore the thought. “What are you thinking about what happened?”

Consider another possibility. “Is there another way we could look at this?”

Focus on what they can do next. “What could you try to help make things better?”

We can also encourage children to ask themselves: Do I know this is true, or am I making a guess? Could there be another explanation? What is something helpful I could do next?

It is important not to rush children into positive thinking or dismiss their feelings with comments such as “Just be happy” or “Don’t worry about it.” Sometimes children need time, reassurance and support before they are ready to consider a different perspective. By helping children recognise their thoughts, understand their feelings and consider their choices, we can support them to develop confidence, resilience and positive relationships.