Signs of Anxiety and Stress in Children

One of the most surprising, and indeed upsetting things, I have discovered in all my years working as a teacher is just how common stress and anxiety is amongst children of a primary age. For some children ‘care free’ days simply do not exist.

Common causes for stress and anxiety in children include:

  • Family Expectations
  • Academic Expectations
  • Social Expectations
  • Friendships
  • Lack of routine
  • Lack of boundaries
  • The need/pressure to be ‘good’
  • Fear of being shouted at/told off
  • Fear of parent separation
  • Exposure to news events
  • Fear of illness/death in themselves and those they love

Signs that a child could be experiencing stress or anxiety:

  • Tummy aches
  • Nightmares
  • Poor sleep
  • Poor academic Progress
  • Clingy/teary
  • Low mood
  • Hyper/silly behaviour
  • Angry/frustrated/aggressive
  • Increased or loss of appetite
  • Bed wetting

If any of these sings are experienced regularly it is advised to seek advise from your GP. There are also a number of activities to help ease everyday stress and anxiety:

  • Relaxation/meditation CDs
  • General Exercise
  • Breathing Exercise/singing/ music
  • Massage
  • Storytelling
  • Small World Play
  • Drawing/colouring/painting/craft
  • Using and exploring sensory toys and equipment
April 16th, 2015 by