Stress and

StudentsBy Heather Lambert

Stre

ss d

efine

d: Stress is a function of the demands placed on us and our ability to meet them.

Sour

ces o

f Stre

ss

for C

hild

ren

Perceived expectations of

others (parents, teachers,

academics, social groups)Stress of others (adult conversations, fights, divorce, news, natural disasters)Hyper scheduling (little

time to rest, busy) Lack of confidant (caring, listening adult)

Sign

s and

Sy

mpt

oms

Anger, moodinessPhysical symptoms: stomachaches, headachesNew habits: chewing,

tappingWithdrawalOverreaction to minor disturbances

Stre

ss re

duce

rs

Parental involvement and

encouragement to talkNormalize stress: some stress is

normalPreparation: help the student

prepare for stressful situations

Listen and look: be aware of the

child’s needs and communication of

concernsProvide quiet time and time to play,

avoid over-scheduling Coping skills: sharing feelings and

needs, journaling, and reading

books to help model how others

deal with stress

Crea

ted

by:

Heat

her

Lam

bert

 Additional Information:http://kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/index.html