Stressed Out Kids!
-December 10, 2009-Comments (1)
Earlier this week, I wrote about the stress we as parents face each holiday season. But we often don't stop and think how stressed out our kids are too! We focused our 6- to 8-year-old Growth Spurt in our December 2009 issue of ParentLife about stressed out kids. Here are some addtional tips to identify and cope with stress! SOURCES OF STRESS
- Pressure to perform well in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities
- Watching parents argue, separate, and divorce
- Death and other types of loss
- Scary Images on TV
- Overscheduling
- Strained relationships with friends
- Bullying
- Learning to be independent
- Peer pressure
COPING WITH STRESS
- Let your child know that he is important to you by spending quality and quantity time with him.
- Reaffirm that your child is safe at home. He hears when you and your spouse fight, fret over paying the bills, or discuss frightning news in the world.
- Talk to your child about what might be causing his stressful feelings. Work together as a team to come up with possible solutions.
- Make sure your child gets plenty of rest, exercise, and good nutrition.
- Pray together. Prayer reduces stress and shifts your focus to God.
How do you help cope with stress in your family?
We pray that you will experience God's peace this Christmas season!
Comments (1)
Another source of stress for children is feeling that they are all alone to handle things. Reassure your child that there are people who will care for her or him and that together you can solve problems that surface.
Also remember the magic of touch. The simple act of holding hands releases oxytocin which is calming. Massage, hug and snuggle with your children to relieve stress. For more tips visit www.liciarando.com for the Caring and Connected Parenting Guide available free on line. Endorsed by Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Betty Williams, both Nobel Peace Prize laureates.
Posted on December 14, 2009 1:46 PM