Robyn's Nest - Strategies for Dealing with Kids Under Stress

Strategies for Dealing with Kids Under Stress

First, rule out any medical diagnosis for whatever they are feeling.

Most importantly - be available to talk to your child and acknowledge and validate his/her feelings. (Remember that stress is in the eye of the beholder)
Leave time for a relaxing morning and evening routine.
Encourage independence/avoid overprotecting.
Set small attainable goals and evaluate.
Accept a child for who he or she is.
Do not expect perfection.
If a child has difficulty with a particular teacher, help him/her find something to like about that teacher. (They will have to deal with difficult people all their lives!)
Leave adequate time for rest, exercise and family time.
Offer appropriate avenues to vent anger or aggression. (Silly Putty and plastic or wooden hammer, punching pillow, stomping corner.) When children are given appropriate avenues for releasing stress they will transfer this to other situations.
Remember that although stomachache, headache, etc. may be symptoms of stress, your child is really feeling these physical symptoms. Acknowledge that they are real.

If these 'stress busters' do not alleviate stress, seek professional help from a doctor, school counselor, parent support group or private counseling. Also see our selection of books on such issues as divorce, loss, and other stressful family situations.

Robyn's Nest Quick Link You can also do a Keyword Search

Robyn's Nest

© 1996-2005 by NYBOR, LLC All rights reserved.
All material on this Internet site is protected by U.S. and international copyrights. Only personal use of such material is permitted. By accessing this page and this site, you expressly agree and consent to the foregoing terms and conditions.
Legal Statement
Privacy Statement

Ways to Help Kids Under Stress