(This is the second blog in a 4 part series…)
We are continuing our Childhood Stress series. Today we will focus on Children who hold their stress in as well as children who express their stress outwardly.
Helping Children Who Hold Feelings In
If your child tries extra hard to be good, do well in his/her class work, and even takes on adult responsibilities, your child might be holding stress in. This child might be worried, fearful, have low self-esteem, shy, or prone to cry easily.
Try making up bedtime stories to tell your son/daughter about a child their age overcoming their fears. This will help the child relax and be open to possibilities. These stories can help ease fears, stress, and prepare your child for a new experience.
Helping Children Who Act Out
Children who show stress by letting it out may lose their tempers easily, become demanding or destructive, or may tease or bully other kids.
How Do You know???
The key word is Change. Was your child making A’s and B’s and is now making C’s and D’s? Generally, an outgoing and friendly child will become sad, withdrawn, or fearful. Or a quiet and easy-going child will become irritable or aggressive.
Adam R Glendye MA MFT, LAPC
