Dealing With Stress In Children

This is just a short bulleted set of lists for dealing with stress in children.  Additional information can be obtained from your family doctor or from a variety of online sources.

Events that could cause stress in children:

• Death of a loved one
• Divorce
• Illness or hospitalization
• Moving/vacations
• Bullying from other children
• New baby
• Parent losing job
• New child care arrangements
• Fighting with peers or siblings.

Ways that children might react when they are stressed:

• Change in normal behavior
• Mood swings
• Temper tantrums
• More aggressive
• Clinging behaviors to people or objects
• Withdrawal
• Appetite changes
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Wetting or soiling
• Stomachaches or headaches

What children need when they are feeling stress:

• Normal routines
• Favorite rituals
• A peaceful environment
• Ample time with calm and loving reassuring adults
• Verbal assurance that they will be okay
• Physical hugs and snuggling
• Security blanket or "lovey."

Activities that relieve stress:

• Physical touch
• Clay or play dough
• Drawing or painting
• Soothing music
• Water play
• Talking to someone who cares
• Time with pets
• Familiar foods at meal times
• Children's literature, familiar stories and books
• Physical activity with few rules or structure. Running, chasing.