Is your child Stressed?

Adults tend to view the world of kids as happy and carefree as we think kids don’t have to deal the problems that adults have to. They always seem happy and carefree. Even younger kids worry and can have stress.

There various levels of stress in kids:

-        Preschoolers can suffer from anxiety from separation from parents.

-        Older kids can suffer from stress due to academic pressure or social pressure when a child is trying to fit in.

-        Kids who are too busy to play creatively or relax after school can complain about activities.

-        Kids can also be affected if a parents in the house are anxious

-        Children can also be affected if they are parents are separated or divorced, illness or death of a loved one.

-        Children can also be stressed if they watch disturbing content on television

-        A change in behavior of a child can be seen if they see adults showing physical or emotional violence against each other.

There are various signs and symptoms which help you find out that you child could be potentially stressed

-        Change in sleeping pattern

-        Having sudden nightmares

-        Avoids being social with peers

-        Bed wetting

-        Change in performance at school

-        Emotionally inappropriate behavior/ violent behavior

-        School going children can become defiant, tell lies and bully other kids

Children are unable to express themselves during these times and we as parents need to patient and have open channels of communication. Let the child know you are there for them physically and emotionally and you should guide the child as to how he or she can handle the stress.

Here are some tips to follow to keep your child stress free:

-        Talk to your child – ask them how their days has been and if they need help with something or there is something which is bothering them

-        Speak to the teachers in school – ask the teacher for constructive feedback about your child and what can you do to help?

-        Speak with your child’s friends – you will be able to gauge from friends and classmates with respect to your child’s behavior in class

-        Reassure your child that you love them unconditionally no matter how bad the situation maybe.

-        Listen to your child – don’t snub them, let them feel comfortable discussing anything with you.

-        Ensure that your child is not over scheduled - your child needs time to unwind and do what he or she likes.

-        Try getting down on the floor with your child – some parents find it difficult to do that after long days of work but it will be relaxing for the both of you.

-        Ensure your child gets enough rest and proper nutrition.

-        Don’t watch disturbing content in front of your children.

-        Speak with a therapist – it’s always great to ask for help and there is nothing wrong in doing so.

I have seen changes in my son behavior on days he is overscheduled or hasn’t slept well at night. Children are unable process or handle the stress and we as parents need to teach them how to tackle such situations. A situation which may not be overwhelming for an adult may be causing great discomfort to a child. These days’ children are so overburdened with classes post school that a lot of them are already burning out before their age. We try to live vicariously through our child, making them achieve our goals. They only have one childhood, don’t rob them of this time which will never come back. Let kids be kids!

Kids who need love will ask for it in the most unloving way - Anon