Stress and anxiety are all-too-common problems faced by children today. When it comes to childhood anxiety, younger grade-schoolers may not be able to fully understand or explain their own feelings. Older kids may be able to understand what’s bothering them, though that’s no guarantee that they’ll share that information with mom or dad. Being aware of changes in your child’s behaviour will better help you to catch problems before they further impact your child.

These are healthy ways in which your child can cope and respond to stress:

At Home

• Make your home a calm, safe and secure place to come to.¹
• Create a relaxed home atmosphere and commit to a routine. Family dinners or game nights can prevent anxiety and help relieve stress.
• Monitor your child’s television shows, video games, and books.

Keep Them Involved

• Give your child a heads up on any anticipated changes and talk through the new scenarios with them.¹ For example, if you will be taking a new job in a new city, what will that mean for them in terms of a new school, new friends and a new home?
• Involve your child in social and sports activities where they can succeed.
• Allow for opportunities where your child can have control over a situation in their life.

Your Actions

• Adopt healthy habits such as exercise and self-care to manage your own stress in healthy ways.¹⁰ Children often mimic their parents’ behaviours.
• Provide affection and encouragement.
• Use positive reinforcement and methods of discipline that promote healthy self-esteem.
• Learn to really listen to your child without being critical or solving problems for them. Provide guidance to teach your child ways to understand and solve the problems that upset them.¹⁰
• Keep an eye out for new signs and behaviours of unresolved stress.

For any concerns related to your child’s health, visit our Pediatrics Department or book an appointment online.