Written by: Nev Alempijevic, Practice Consultant, Rural Alive & Well

A second post in this series of conversations will focus broadly on stress. Stress can have a profound impact on children, which can affect their physical, emotional and cognitive well-being.

Part Two can be found here : Nurturing Through Life's Stages

What is stress and why does it matter?

Stress is a natural response to challenges or threats, triggering reactions in the body. While some stress can be helpful for building resilience and coping skills, too much or prolonged stress can harm a child's health and development.

Recognising Early Signs of Stress and some practical tips

It is our responsibility as adults to provide safety, a nurturing environment, empathy, structure, age-appropriate information, comfort and guidance, at each stage of the child’s development. The practical tips are then built on from those foundations depending on the child’s ability and level of understanding.

Infants (0-2 years):

• Early Signs: Some early signs of stress in infants include excessive crying, difficulty sleeping and changes in feeding patterns. They may also show clinginess and/or separation anxiety.

• Practical Tips: Providing comfort through physical touch and soothing sounds, while ensuring a consistent and nurturing environment.

Toddlers (2-3 years):

• Early Signs: Toddlers may express stress through tantrums, regression in behaviours such as potty training, and disruptions in sleep patterns. They may become irritable or aggressive when feeling overwhelmed.
• Practical Tips: Encouraging age-appropriate problem-solving skills, offering reassurance and validation of feelings, and maintaining consistent routines.

Early Childhood (3-6 years):

• Early Signs: In early childhood, stress can manifest as clinginess, withdrawal from social interactions, or physical complaints such as stomachaches or headaches. Children may also display behavioural changes, such as increased defiance or moodiness.

• Practical Tips: Teaching simple relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises, promoting positive social interactions and playtime, and fostering a sense of autonomy and independence.

Middle Childhood (6-12 years):

• Early Signs: Stress in middle childhood can manifest as academic pressure, social anxiety, or perfectionism. Children may show signs of stress through changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, or withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed.

• Practical Tips: Encouraging open communication and problem-solving skills, providing opportunities for physical activity and creative expression, and modelling healthy coping strategies.

Adolescence (12-18 years):

• Early Signs: Adolescents may experience stress related to academic demands, peer relationships, and identity formation. Signs of stress may include mood swings, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and engaging in risky behaviours such as substance abuse or self-harm.

• Practical Tips: Supporting autonomy and decision-making skills, fostering a sense of belonging and connectedness, and promoting healthy lifestyle habits including regular exercise, adequate sleep, and nutritious diet.

By recognising early signs of stress, promoting healthy coping mechanisms, and providing practical support, parents and caregivers can help their children navigate the challenges of life with resilience and strength. Spending time together as a family ensures that the child knows that their feelings are valued and could be expressed in healthy ways.

Please note: If stress becomes overwhelming or persistent, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from paediatricians, mental health professionals or school counsellors.