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
