Commonly, when we hear the word “stress”, we immediately associate it to adults who are very busy with their careers, professional life and personal life. Most of us think that stress only happens in adults not to children but that is not entirely correct. Children can also experience stress. They can get tired and extremely exhausted with the things they do and encounter every day. Some of the things that children can get stressed out with include school work, home work, play activities and friends. Things and events that adults tend to overlook may also contribute to stress in kids. Parents who love to go out and host parties may not know that their kids are stressed out when interacting with strangers and other people. Some parents would think that making their children perform in front of a crowd is a good thing, but in reality it causes a lot of stress and anxiety to the child. When a child feels stressed, he usually exhibits several physical and emotional characteristics. A stressed child would appear tired and fatigued. He becomes cranky and gets irritated easily. He becomes very temperamental and easily angered by very little and trivial things. Stressed out children lose their zest for life; they do not like to play with other children, go out and explore as well as enjoy fun activities. Stressed out children, in most cases, grow up to become stressed out adults. If they are always like this most of their lives, they become prone to health problems and complications. Stress is one of the major contributing factors to heart disease, gastric ulcers, depression and cancer. Managing stress properly even at an early age will effectively reduce the risk for these conditions. Listed below are some quick and easy stress relievers and stress management tips for children.

1)      Be Physically Present for the Child – Children, who are stressed out, are in need of physical attention. Holding the child’s hand or even giving him a soft back or shoulder rub ensures that the parent is there for him. The child will fell that he’s not alone, and he can rely on his mom or dad for help during difficult times. A hug or soft embrace can lessen the child’s anxiety and stress levels. 

2)     Deep Breathing – Children above 3 years old can already be taught how to do deep breathing exercises. Deep breathing calms the nerves and reduces stress; it can also prevent hyperventilation which usually happens to stressed out children. Deep breathing is done by inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth. This exercise should be done for 10-15 cycles or until the child feels better and relieved. 

3)      Change of Scenery – One of the quickest ways to relive stress is to remove the child from the place that causes it. Parents can bring their child outside for a short walk or go to the park for a change of scenery. The sound of running water and the sight of green trees and blue skies can help a lot.