Credit: skynesher
Childhood experiences shape the way children see the world, and even small, repeated actions by parents can leave lasting emotional marks.
For one family in Nairobi, their ten-year-old son’s growing anxiety and withdrawal forced them to confront habits that were quietly harming him.
Seeking professional guidance became the turning point for their household, showing that change is possible when love and awareness meet.
Kwrui's story;
"I am Kwrui, and for a long time, I didn’t realize how much our habits were affecting our son, Laban. My husband and I both worked long hours, often taking our frustrations home.
We argued more than we should have and sometimes raised our voices at small mistakes. I thought it was normal discipline, but over time, I noticed Laban growing quieter, his smiles less frequent, and his school reports showing more anxiety than confidence.
It was one evening, after Laban refused to eat dinner and hid in his room, that I knew something had to change. We decided to seek help—not just for him, but for ourselves. We made appointments with a child psychologist and a family counselor.
Sitting in that first session, I felt a mix of guilt and relief as the psychologist explained how consistent exposure to tension and harsh criticism can traumatize a child, even if unintentional.
Our counselor worked with us to identify patterns in our behavior. We learned how our arguments, the rushed mornings, and the occasional sarcastic remarks were impacting Laban.
More importantly, we were taught healthier ways to communicate and manage our stress. For the first time, we practiced speaking to each other calmly, even when frustrated, and intentionally spending moments of positive connection with Laban.
The transformation didn’t happen overnight. There were days when old habits crept back in, and I saw Laban retreat again. But with guidance and consistency, small changes made a difference.
We introduced a “family check-in” every evening, where each of us could share how our day went, express frustrations without blame, and celebrate small victories.
Laban began to open up about his worries, and we listened—not with judgment, but with understanding.
Two months into this new routine, I saw Laban laugh more freely at the dinner table. He started joining us in activities we hadn’t shared in years.
Watching him regain confidence reminded me that being a parent is not just about providing, but about shaping an environment of safety and emotional security.
Seeking help was the first step, but maintaining it required patience, reflection, and a commitment to change—for him, and for ourselves." Get The Full Story Here