Like adults, kids also suffer from stress. Too many commitments, conflict in their families and problems with peers are all stressors that overwhelm children. According to research, a certain amount of stress is actually good for children. The 'Positive Stress' stimulates growth and challenges students to achieve their best. But when a child becomes over stressed by certain stressors (i.e., too much noise, too much light, sitting still for too long, the fabric of their clothes) they become unable to calmly and rationally solve problems and regulate their emotions. Dr. Shanker refers to this as 'Stress Behaviour' as opposed to 'Misbehaviour'. It is our job as parents and educators to try and identify the stressful events that are triggering this 'fight or flight' response. It is then, when a child can identify what is a stressor for them, that they can practice calming techniques and strategies to get them back into the Green Zone, where learning can take place.
Below are a list of 7 Tips to help children manage stress:
1. Stop overscheduling
2. Make time for play
3. Make sleep a priority
4. Teach kids to listen to their bodies
5. Manage your own stress
6. Make mornings calmer
7. Prepare your kids to deal with mistakes
More information can be found at 7 Tips
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