As a parent, it’s natural to want to protect your children from stress and negative experiences. However, stress is a normal part of life and can even be beneficial in small doses. It helps children learn how to cope with difficult situations and can even help them develop resilience. How can I help my kids deal with stress? That is a very good question.
Dr. Shanna Crawford is here with some great advice about listening to our kids as they express the problems in their lives. Find more here.
Here are Some Ways You Can Help Your Kids Deal With Stress in a Healthy Way:
Encourage open communication:
Make sure your children feel comfortable talking to you about their stressors. Listen actively and without judgment. Ask open-ended questions and validate their feelings. Help them develop the Character trait of courage by talking about their fears and other things that are holding them back in life.
Model healthy coping mechanisms:
Children learn by example, so it’s important to practice healthy coping mechanisms yourself. This includes things like exercise, deep breathing, and time management. Show your children how you manage stress in your own life.
Help them prioritize:
Teach your children how to prioritize their responsibilities and make a schedule. This will help them feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
Give them opportunities to relax:
Encourage your children to engage in activities they enjoy, such as playing sports, reading, or listening to music. Make sure they are getting enough sleep and eating well.
Encourage them to ask for help:
Remind your children that it’s okay to ask for help when they are feeling stressed. This could be from a teacher, counselor, or other trusted adult.
Practice mindfulness:
Mindfulness can help children focus on the present moment, rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Encourage your children to practice mindfulness through activities like meditation and prayer.
Seek professional help:
If your child’s stress seems to be interfering with their daily life, it may be time to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can work with your child to develop coping strategies and provide support.
Remember, stress is a normal part of life and children will encounter it at some point. By teaching them healthy coping mechanisms and providing support, you can help them develop the skills they need to manage stress in a healthy way. Here are 100 ways to deal with stress.
God Loves You and Will Help You
Please watch the Great News for You Video on this page to find out more about how much God loves you and how he can help you deal with the problems of life. He sent his only Son, Jesus Christ to give your brand new life. He loves you and he loves your precious child.
If you would like to talk to someone about stress or another area of your life, please fill out this form and one of our awesome Care Coaches will be in tough. You don’t have to be alone. God loves you and we care.
