HELPING CHILDREN WHO ARE STRESSED
Children can be very aware of what is happening in their communities. Many see things on TV that may be disturbing because they do not understand what is actually happening. Children may witness protests or violent confrontations in their neighborhoods. Also, children can feel the anxiety from parents. How do you recognize anxiety in a child? How can you help lessen the stress of anxiety in a child? According to Childcare Aware of America children at different behavioral stages may exhibit the following signs of anxiety:
Infants and toddlers (ages 0-2) cannot understand that difficult changes are underway, but if their parent or other caregiver is upset, children will sense it. They may start to show the same emotions as their caregivers, or they may act differently than usual, like crying for no reason, withdrawing from people, or not playing with their toys.
Children 3-5 years old can understand the effects of a major shift in the world around them. They may have trouble adjusting to change and loss and, if they witness violence, may become traumatized. They depend on the adults around them to help them feel better and to explain what is happening, and why.
WHAT STRESS MAY LOOK LIKE AND HOW TO RESPOND- INFANTS
Crying more than usual
More clinginess
Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than usual
Changes in eating or bowel movements
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Keep routines in care normal and consistent
Hold and rock more, be affectionate
Keep a positive attitude
Reassure as needed
Be patient
TODDLERS
Loss of appetite
May regress to acting younger, for example, wanting a bottle AND using “baby talk”
Clinginess Cries or screams a lot
Being more aggressive —hitting or pushing
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Play with them
Continue to hug and give affection
Pay attention to how they play
HOW TO SUPPORT CHILDREN WHO ARE UNDER STRESS:
Keep routines normal and continue favorite rituals or activities
Maintain a “peaceful” atmosphere
Make sure children are eating regular, healthy meals
Always reassure children that you will do whatever you can to keep them safe
Limit exposure to the media and adult conversations about the change that’s underway
For example: Do not discuss stressful situations that are occurring at home with the parent in front of the child. Talk to the parent later on the phone when the child is not present.
Answer any questions children have. Be honest without giving a lot of detail. Discuss with parent how to best answer the child's questions.
Talk about the event when children bring it up – don’t try to change the subject. Correct any “false” ideas young children may have about what happened. The language you use and information you give should always be age- appropriate.
Help children feel in control by allowing them to have choices. Choices give them a voice and allow them to feel in charge of a situation, no matter how small.
For Example: Giving a 4 year-old a choice of playing with blocks or doing an art activity.
Teach children ways to calm themselves like dancing to music, breathing deeply, or doing art activities.
Give opportunities for emotional expression through activities like playing with Play Dough, drawing, building, and dramatic play.