Supporting our kids’ well-being

The farming way of life offers children a chance to grow up around nature and build responsibility – and it can also place emotional demands on young shoulders. You can help your kids navigate wellness in healthy, supported ways.

“There’s an incredible stoicism in farm culture – getting chores done even when you’re ill, ensuring things are looked after,” says counsellor Tammy Thielman, MSW.

That same determination that keeps operations running through long hours and financial pressure can also lead families to absorb stress or handle it poorly – shaping how children learn to manage pressure.

Children’s thoughts often show through behaviour more than words.

Working from Salmon Arm, B.C., where she and her family raise sheep, horses and chickens, Thielman supports children, youth, parents and families.

She’s seen children who love the farm and those who don’t, adding that mental health challenges can stem from events such as family conflict, divorce or changes in farm ownership.

Farm kids often witness the ups and downs of weather, markets or production. Those uncertainties can ripple through a household, affecting how secure they feel.

“It’s sometimes the ripple effect. Children are observant and deeply connected to what’s happening around them. Giving them tools to process those experiences builds coping skills. They’re incredibly thinking and feeling little beings, and these are big things for a young nervous system,” Thielman says.

Observe the kids 

As adults, we’re logical, but children’s thoughts often show through behaviour more than words.

“Kids live in their hearts. I’ve treated children who are really sad, angry or overly cheerful, trying to mask feelings,” Thielman says.

Warning signs include aggression, worry, sadness, disinterest in activities, poor school performance, clinginess, isolation, sleep or appetite changes, fatigue, or headaches.

“I’ve had five-year-olds say, ‘My back hurts,’” Thielman says. Such symptoms may be stress-related and should be evaluated by a medical professional.

In adolescence, kids may push you away or act mean, but Thielman says parents and caregivers remain the best barometers.

“Listen to your instincts. If you sense something, check it out. Ethical providers will tell you if they see a need for intervention,” she says.

Being attentive isn’t just good parenting – it’s part of strong leadership on the farm. Families who communicate openly make clearer business and succession decisions because they operate from trust and emotional safety.

Small, consistent actions make a big difference 

Even during the busiest seasons, moments of connection and honesty help kids feel safe and supported. One of the best preventive measures is teaching emotional language.

“Let them know some feelings you have – frustration, sadness or confusion. Naming emotions models that we are thinking and feeling people.”

Farming is full of teachable moments: disappointment after a poor yield, relief when equipment works or gratitude after a good day. Sharing these reflections helps kids understand emotions as part of managing both people and production.

It’s also helpful to read with them about emotions. “Even short picture books open the door for discussion. We don’t always nail it as parents or clinicians, but they know we’re trying. They know we care.”

Thielman cautions that asking too many questions can make kids shut down. Encourage young children to express their feelings through drawing. She often uses emoji pictures to start conversations.

Routine and stability at home provide a sense of security. Social interaction with peers is important too.

“We all have moments when we need a little extra support,” Thielman says. “When we model caring for our mental health, like we would a sprained ankle, kids learn that looking after mental health is just part of staying well.”

That mindset also builds resilience into the business – healthy leaders make steadier decisions and create workplaces, even family ones, where others can thrive.

Intervene early

Early support leads to better outcomes. Finding the right provider takes time, so start early. Look for a qualified counsellor, psychiatrist or psychologist with recognized credentials and membership in a professional regulatory college.

“Be the squeaky wheel,” Thielman says. “Advocate for yourself and your child. That’s also part of some providers’ role – helping with system navigation.”

Parents are a child’s biggest support, but they can’t be therapists.

“Within confidentiality limits, caregivers have the right to know how sessions are going,” she says. “Parents are often the first to notice a problem – and to see progress.”

On farms, where family and business overlap, early support isn’t just personal – it’s practical. Wellness strengthens communication and teamwork, helping ensure the next generation is emotionally ready to thrive.

From an AgriSuccess article by Myrna Stark Leader