Stress is a commonly used word, yet the outcomes of it are not so common. Not finding a pair of socks or a shirt that goes well with your trousers can also become a source of stress. Contrary to popular belief, stress happens over trivial things too.
Understanding Childhood Stress
So, imagine what kind of stress our little ones might be going through. In the current situation, children are surrounded by adults more than their peers. When adults express their stress in different forms, children tend to pick up on those anxious vibes and feel stressed. With online learning and assignments, their workload hasn’t reduced but increased, as they are not physically present in front of their teachers to resolve their queries and doubts. So, what can we do as parents to reduce their stress and increase their productivity?
Here are some simple yet effective tips to help reduce your child's stress:
1. Start The Morning With Yoga or Meditation
An early and right start to the day can work wonders for everyone. If a child learns to relax and focus on their thoughts and body, they will spend the entire day productively and efficiently. Yoga and meditation help maintain a healthy and positive mindset, which can significantly reduce childhood anxiety.
2. Create A Schedule
Let the kids have a set routine, just like they have a timetable at school. Help them understand the importance of time. This will not only make them organized but will also reduce the chaos in their mind about what to do next.
3. Make Learning Fun With Games
Come up with creative board games for your children. Play snake and ladder but set tasks on it. If they use a ladder, they have to orally say 2 sentences using nouns. If a snake bites them, they have to write 2 sentences using verbs. Make learning enjoyable to ease stress.
4. Involve Them In Daily Tasks
Allow children to help with small, day-to-day tasks like arranging spoons or placing mats on the table. Such tasks instill a sense of responsibility and accomplishment, reducing childhood stress.
5. Grow Plants Together
Planting seeds and watching them grow is a natural stress buster. It teaches responsibility, patience, and care while helping children relax and bond with nature.
6. Encourage Reading
Ask them to read their favorite stories to you. Engage them in discussions about the characters and plot. Reading is a great way to reduce stress and boost imagination.
7. Get Creative With Crafts
Start DIY crafts like origami or quilling. Learning one new craft daily keeps children engaged and helps relieve stress. It can also boost their creativity.
8. Encourage Sketching And Coloring
Help them draw their favorite characters or color mandalas. These activities are therapeutic and allow children to express their thoughts and emotions through art.
9. Incorporate Learning Games
Revise school concepts in a fun way by playing online games based on their curriculum. This helps children retain information without feeling pressured, reducing anxiety.
10. Bonding Time Is Important
Communication is key. Talk to your children, ask them how they’re feeling, and try to solve problems together. Knowing they have support can greatly reduce their stress levels.
Conclusion: Understanding Your Child's Needs
As parents, you know your children better than anyone. Try revolving activities around their likes and dislikes. When you’re stressed, avoid letting that stress affect your children. Open communication and stress-relieving activities will help create a calm, positive environment for your child to thrive.
Written by: Ms. Sakina Solanki
Grade 2 Homeroom Teacher
JBCN International School
FAQs
-
How can I tell if my child is stressed?
Signs of childhood stress include irritability, changes in sleep patterns, withdrawal, and difficulty concentrating.
-
What are some simple activities to help my child reduce stress?
Yoga, creative games, planting, crafting, and reading can all help reduce a child's stress.
-
How can I create a stress-free environment at home for my child?
Establish a routine, maintain open communication, and engage your child in fun, creative activities to create a peaceful environment.
-
Can physical exercise help reduce my child’s stress?
Yes, regular physical activity can boost mood, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being, making it an effective way to reduce stress.