If your child is too shy to speak up in public (e.g.
library, restaurant, etc.)-Practice with them before they get to that
location. Remind them that they were
able to do this at home.
If your child has a bad dream and wants to come in bed with
you-Acknowledge that he or she is scared, let them know dreams aren’t real and
tell he/she they are safe.Encourage
them to fall back asleep in their own bed, just like you fall asleep in your own
bed.
Your child is afraid to attend a drop-off party-Empathize
with the reluctance, but talk about the fun they might miss.Let your child know that everyone gets
nervous, but that they will have a fun time with their friends at the
party.
Have expectations of your child
Build you child’s personal strength
Let your child learn to do things on their
own
Help your child handle his/her own feelings
Try not to pass on your own fears
Work together as parents
For further information go to: www.worry wisekids.org
To help your child cope with stress:
1.Notice out loud=Tell your child when you notice they are
bothered by something. (e.g. “It seems
like you are still upset about what happened at school today.” ) You are making a casual observation and
showing you care and want to hear more about it.
2.Listen to your child=Ask your child what is wrong. Let them express their feelings or concerns
without passing judgement. Try to get
the whole story by asking questions such as; “And then what happened?”
3. Comment briefly on the feelings you think your child was
experiencing= One example, “That must have felt embarrassing”. Children feel supported by their parents when
they feel understood and listened to especially in times of stress.
4.Put a label on it=Identify feelings for your child if they
are not able to do so.
5. Teach your child: Positive Self-Talk ("I can handle this....."), muscle relaxation, visualization/imagery, deep breathing, etc.
For further information go to www.kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/feelings/stress