Know a child that’s stressed? It happens to everyone. Even me and my friends here in Kaleidoscope Garden. But that doesn’t stop us from trying to keep things as stress-free as possible. How do we do it? Here are a few tips for you to try to help prevent stress in the kids you know.
Keep a set routine. We do. Routines are a great way to establish a safe environment. We get up early, eat, and then play together. Establishing a routine like eating dinner at the table each night and family-time can be comforting and feel like a safe space.
Monitor TV shows and video games. We don’t watch TV or play video games in Kaleidoscope Garden but, we’ve heard that graphic visuals or stories on TV can produce anxiety. Our biggest source of anxiety around here is the mean, scary gator that shows up every now and then – but, more on him at another time.
Listen to them. Sometimes kids can feel like no one is listening and nothing they say is important. We’re constantly chatting each other up around here. Giving an ear to a child so they can share their fears, feelings, or discuss specific situations in their lives encourages them to become more open. Letting your child vent about their issues is an excellent way to de-stress.
And lastly, grab a book and read to, or with them. I know a good story to read out loud. It’s called, I’m a Different Butterfly and it’s about me, Lulu Noire.
Lulu Noire, Behind the Tales 