Parents Provide Biggest Role in Child's Success
In a world where we, as adults, are stressed to the maximum, it
makes sense that our children are also living very demanding
lives. With most jobs requiring a college degree, the pressure
to succeed is more prominent than ever. Children with such
disabilities as ADD or ADHD may feel particularly bombarded by
stress and anxiety.
Even children who do not suffer from neurological challenges
feel the everyday pressure from parents, teachers and peers.
Combine these pressures with any disadvantage and you may end up
with a child who is in complete distress. Anxious children are
often overly tense or uptight. Some may seek a lot of
reassurance, and their worries may interfere with activities.
Because anxious children may also be quiet, compliant and eager
to please, their difficulties may be missed. Parents should be
alert to the signs of severe anxiety, such as change in
appetite, sleep pattern or overall disposition, so they can
intervene early to prevent complications. It is important not to
discount a child's fears.
Studies suggest that you may notice more anxiety when a child
must make transitions, such as a new teacher or a new school. To
avoid adding extra stress during these trying times, you may
consider introducing the child to his/her new surroundings,
slowly (i.e., meeting the teacher/seeing the school before the
year begins). Ask your child if he/she has any concerns or
questions and address each one appropriately.
Other major causes of stress are tests and exams. Research has
shown that providing students with tools and strategies that
build both emotional skills and healthy physical habits when
preparing for a test can help them overcome test anxiety and the
associated symptoms, while improving their ability to prepare
for and perform on critical testing. It