Tips For Parents To Help Their Children Cope With Stress | Orlando Counselor

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As the lockdown continues stress levels can naturally rise. This can be most difficult on children. Being younger, their mindsets can be set on socializing, physical activity, and just “not being stuck in the house”. The young ones may not entirely understand why they can’t go over to their friends house, or why they can’t go with you to the grocery store. These are things they are accustomed to. These tensions could be even higher if your child has ADHD or ASD. 

What to look for? 

Stress in your child may not be so obvious, they may not verbally express it. Things you should be on the look out for are short-term behavioral changes such as; mood swings, changes in sleep schedule, or even bed-wetting. Some children have physical symptoms of stress, including headaches and stomachaches. Your child may become withdrawn and spend a lot of time alone. Or have trouble concentrating or finishing their schoolwork. 

What to do?

You could help your child cope with their stress by talking to them about whatever might be causing it. Together, you can come up with a plan of action and solutions. Like reducing screen time and developing an exercise plan, or keeping a journal. 

Reassure your child that some level of stress is normal; let them know that it’s alright to feel scared, anxious, angry, or lonely. Make sure they understand that other people share those feelings. Also remind them that you’re confident that they can handle the situation.

American Academy of Pediatrics

Medline Plus