By Veronica Carpio, Features Editor, The Wellness Collective

When we think of mental health, we often imagine therapy sessions, self-care rituals, or stress management techniques reserved for adults. But the truth is, mental wellness begins much earlier—at birth, in fact. And the way we nurture our babies and toddlers has a profound impact on the emotional intelligence and resilience they carry into the world.

As someone who speaks to other mums often, I’ve come to realise that raising emotionally healthy children isn’t about shielding them from life’s struggles. It’s about helping them build the internal tools to navigate emotions, form strong connections, and bounce back when things go wrong.

In fast-paced, high-pressure environments like the UAE—where many parents are juggling demanding work schedules, multicultural households, and a lack of extended family support—the emotional wellbeing of our little ones can sometimes take a back seat. But it doesn’t have to.

Emotional Intelligence Begins with Connection

Babies are born with a brain wired for connection. Every cuddle and comforting touch literally shapes their neural pathways. In the early months, their entire sense of security and self-worth is built through responsive caregiving. That’s not about being a “perfect parent”—it’s about being present and attuned.

When a baby cries and someone consistently comes, that baby learns: I matter. My emotions are safe here.

This seemingly simple pattern lays the foundation for emotional regulation, empathy, and even self-confidence later in life. And in the UAE, where many families rely on nannies or daycare from an early stage, this connection doesn’t need to be compromised—it just needs to be intentional. Whether it’s through skin-to-skin time, eye contact, or predictable routines, that emotional attunement can come from any loving caregiver.

Toddlers and Big Feelings

Anyone raising a toddler knows they are a whirlwind of emotions—from ecstatic giggles to epic meltdowns in supermarket aisles. But every tantrum is a teachable moment. Emotional resilience doesn’t mean avoiding being upset; it means learning how to move through it.

Labeling emotions (“You’re feeling really frustrated right now”), validating them (“That was really hard, I see why you’re upset”), and modeling calm (“Let’s take a breath together”) are powerful tools. It might feel repetitive, but what we’re doing is giving children the emotional vocabulary they’ll one day use with themselves—and others.

In the UAE, where cultural norms vary widely and some approaches may still lean toward suppressing strong emotions, it’s important to shift the narrative. Emotions aren’t a weakness. Teaching our children to express and manage them is one of the strongest gifts we can offer.

The Power of Play

One of the most beautiful ways children process their emotions is through play. It’s not just fun—it’s therapeutic. Pretend games, drawing, dancing, building… That’s how children make sense of the world.

In a city like Dubai, with its abundance of play areas, sensory classes, and community centres, there’s real opportunity to nurture this side of development. But just as important as structured activity is unstructured, screen-free time—where imagination takes the lead and parents follow their child’s rhythm.

Emotional resilience is built in the spaces where a child feels safe to explore, make mistakes, laugh, and cry—all without fear of judgment.

Parents, You Matter Too

We can’t talk about emotionally resilient children without talking about emotionally supported parents. The truth is, your children co-regulate with you. If you are constantly anxious, depleted, or disconnected, it becomes harder to show up with the calm, patient energy they need.

In a place like the UAE, where many parents are expatriates without extended family nearby, isolation is real. That’s why finding a support network—be it through mum groups, parenting workshops, or even digital communities—is so crucial.

And let’s not forget: seeking help when we’re struggling emotionally isn’t just okay—it’s modelling resilience in action. Whether it’s therapy, meditation, or simply asking a friend for help, these choices show children that emotional care is essential, not optional.

Resilience Doesn’t Mean Toughness

There’s a misconception that resilience is about “toughening up.” But the most resilient children aren’t those who never cry or struggle—they’re the ones who know how to name their feelings, ask for support, and try again after setbacks.

At home, that might look like offering a hug before a lecture. Encouraging curiosity instead of punishment. Celebrating effort more than outcome.

And in a world that’s increasingly complex, uncertain, and emotionally demanding, these small choices today build the foundation for the emotionally intelligent adults tomorrow.

So if you’re ever wondering if all the comforting, listening, and gentle guidance really matters, let me reassure you: it does. You are your child’s first and most important mental health advocate. And the way you love, respond, and teach—moment by moment—is shaping a more resilient future.