Professor Hannah Emma Acquaye, a distinguished counselling psychologist and lecturer at the University of Education, Winneba, recently addressed caregivers at the International Conference for Counsellors and Associates organized by the Ghana National Association of Certificated Counsellors (GNACC). Her key message emphasized the importance of recognizing the individuality of each child, firmly advising against the common practice of comparing children to one another. She articulated that such comparisons can have detrimental effects on children’s self-esteem and overall behavior, underscoring that every child is unique and should be treated as such. This theme of individuality aligns with the conference’s focus on mental well-being in early childhood, as understood through a holistic and respectful lens.
During her presentation, Professor Acquaye highlighted that children are not simply miniature versions of adults, but rather complete beings with their own emotional landscapes. She urged caregivers to approach their interactions with children through the principles of empathy and kindness, suggesting that adults serve as essential role models for young minds. Children tend to replicate behaviors rather than mere words, making it imperative for adults to demonstrate positive attitudes and actions. By fostering an environment rooted in respect and understanding, caregivers can better nurture a child’s emotional development and mental well-being.
In her address, Professor Acquaye connected the importance of early emotional nurturing to broader concepts of mental health. She posited that the foundational years are crucial for establishing healthy patterns of emotional expression and management. As such, caregivers are encouraged to engage not only in active listening but also in creating safe spaces where children can explore and articulate their feelings. This proactive approach can lead to resilient individuals who are both aware of their emotions and capable of expressing them appropriately.
Ms. Anna Plange, the acting registrar of the Ghana Psychological Council, also contributed to the discussions by illuminating the regulatory framework governing counselling practices in Ghana. She underscored the necessity for practitioners to obtain proper licensing from the council before offering their services. This call for regulation aims to safeguard the standards of practice within the field, ensuring that all counsellors are adequately prepared to handle the mental health challenges faced by the populations they serve, especially young children and their families.
In addition to valuable insights from professionals, the conference also featured remarks from Dr. Cecelia Tutu-Danquah, President of the GNACC. Dr. Tutu-Danquah encouraged participants to apply the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the conference to their professional practices. She emphasized the importance of translating theoretical insights into practical applications that can enhance the mental health landscape for children and families in Ghana. The collective aim was for all participants to leave with actionable strategies that can be integrated into their work.
The conference concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing deserving members of the GNACC for their contributions to the field. This celebration was not only a moment of acknowledgment for individual accomplishments but also served as a reminder of the collective mission shared by the conference attendees: to foster mental well-being through compassionate, informed, and respectful practices in working with children. The overarching message was clear: nurturing the emotional and psychological health of children is a shared responsibility, and through collaboration and adherence to ethical practices, great strides can be made towards this goal.
