As adults, our lives are usually filled with stress. The commute
to work, everything we have to do and deal with around the house
(including raising our children). Work. Bills. Taxes. And so on.

We're stressed-out. And, by comparison, we probably tend to think
that being a child is a breeze by comparison. What could kids
possibly have to worry about compared to what we as parents do?
Believe it or not, a lot!

Consider the pressures that children may feel from sources such as
friends, school and your own family. Think about the pressure to
perform, to meet goals and expectations in young people who may not
yet have mastered the skills it takes to deal with such tasks.

Your children may also feel stress from separation anxiety, or they
may take on stress that you and your spouse are experiencing from
work, an illness in the family, financial matters, even a divorce
or other problems in the families of their friends.

And don't forget the impact of the world around them. Kids watch
TV and see some pretty horrible things taking place. They may even
discuss such things in school or with their peers.

So, what should you do about helping to relieve such stresses in
your children?

First, be alert for symptoms of stress in children (complaining
about being overwhelmed, a change in demeanour, aggressiveness,
twirling hair, nightmares, bedwetting, etc).
The best and simplest way to tackle the issue of stress is to talk
things out and try to come up with solutions together. If your
children don't want to talk about it, try sharing how you feel
about such things first.

Also be sure your children get enough quality time, rest and proper
nutrition. If you know of some stressful event that is on the
horizon (doctor's appointment, aging grandparent, etc.), talk about
it ahead of time and try to prepare the child for it.

Lastly, if the problem is severe, consider seeking professional
help. However, also keep in mind that we all experience stress and
it's normal. It's how we deal with it, overcoming those feelings of
fear, anger, frustration, loneliness, or being overwhelmed that can
help us and children manage the stresses that come with life.