Stress and Young Children

I think we like to visualize childhood as a time that is carefree and innocent. The truth is young children are not always isolated or immune to trauma and day to day stress. Some stress is normal but more and more children impacted by it.

Possible Causes of Stress
Abuse
Illness
Separation
Loss
Moving
Change
Holidays(yes positive events can be stressful too)

Possible Signs of Stress
Any sudden change of behavior or habits
Daydreaming
Lack of emotion
Sullen or defiant
Over-sensitive
Change in eating habits
Regression
Stutters
Grinds teeth
Nightmares
Over demanding/clingy
Can not sustain play
Aggression

Possible Coping Strategies for Stress
Enhance self-esteem
Prepare child for change
Acknowledge feelings
Security objects
Model coping skills
Use humor
Structure environment
Physical activity
Music
Affection