We recently posted about how our children can become stressed and anxious during the holiday season. Stress symptoms may differ depending on the age of our kids but the Crisis Preparedness, Response, and Recovery Resource Center of the National Center for Mental Health Promotion and Youth Violence Prevention suggests some signs to keep an eye on:
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches
- Irritability and regressive behaviors
- Behaviors of isolation or withdrawal
It is important that we schedule at least a 15 – 30 minute break in between events to allow our children recharge. Once you see your kid’s anxiety building up during other times of the day, it is okay for them to take an unplanned break. It may also be a good idea for us to talk with our kids before and let them know that when they start to feel overwhelmed, they can find a quiet space to take some deep breaths in, listen to music, or do something that will help them relax.
Sources:
Holiday Stress and Kids – http://www.promoteprevent.org/blog/holiday-stress-and-kids
7 Ways to Reduce Your Child’s Holiday Stress – https://www.parents.com/holiday/christmas/7-ways-to-reduce-your-childs-holiday-stress/
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