Terin
asks:
Question asked after reading: http://www.education.com/reference/article/Ref_...
In Topics:
Children and stress, Discipline and behavior challenges, Communicating with my child (The tough talks)
Q:
How can I work with my child to help him take a breath and think before he reacts?
Question asked after reading: http://www.education.com/reference/article/Ref_...
> 60 days ago
What the Expert Says:
Resources:
Additional Answers (1)
Hi Terin,
That is a fantastic question. Just as adults frequently face stress on a day-to-day basis, kids often come across stressful situations as well. Dealing with homework, confusion about academic concepts, friendship issues, the trickle down of stress from parents, etc. are all situations that can make kids experience anxiety and stress.
Helping kids to cope with stress and conflict in a positive way is a great idea. Deep breathing, counting to ten, and channeling anxiety and anger into physical activity are all good practices for managing stress in the face of conflicts.
I'm not sure from your question what type of conflict your child is facing, but I'm guessing he might be experiencing stressful interactions with his peers, parents, or teacher. In any of these instances, it's a good idea for kids who are feeling anger coming on to walk away and spend a minute or two alone before reacting to a situation. Suggest that he counts to ten in his head, and takes some deep breaths while he's counting, and then revisits the conversation that caused him anxiety in the first place. Hopefully, he'll be able to react to the situation in a much more clear-headed and helpful manner.
Hope this helps, and good luck!
Alex
That is a fantastic question. Just as adults frequently face stress on a day-to-day basis, kids often come across stressful situations as well. Dealing with homework, confusion about academic concepts, friendship issues, the trickle down of stress from parents, etc. are all situations that can make kids experience anxiety and stress.
Helping kids to cope with stress and conflict in a positive way is a great idea. Deep breathing, counting to ten, and channeling anxiety and anger into physical activity are all good practices for managing stress in the face of conflicts.
I'm not sure from your question what type of conflict your child is facing, but I'm guessing he might be experiencing stressful interactions with his peers, parents, or teacher. In any of these instances, it's a good idea for kids who are feeling anger coming on to walk away and spend a minute or two alone before reacting to a situation. Suggest that he counts to ten in his head, and takes some deep breaths while he's counting, and then revisits the conversation that caused him anxiety in the first place. Hopefully, he'll be able to react to the situation in a much more clear-headed and helpful manner.
Hope this helps, and good luck!
Alex
> 60 days ago
