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the first time. Younger teens are about to enter high school, while older ones have college on the brain. In between are teens working hard to keep up with school and other activities, all while trying to understand their place in the world. They’re figuring out the qualities that make them who they are, and they’re starting to realize how they’re perceived by others. As adults, this might be second-nature knowledge, but every adult was once in the same predicament as these teens. Confronting change you can’t control is nerve-wracking and downright scary at times. Teenagers in today’s world face the same biological changes, and many of the same external changes, that their parents and grandparents faced before them. But today’s teens contend with a big difference: the internet. While peer pressure and bullying have existed for time immemorial, their effects are made saturated and prevalent thanks to modern technology. With social media, internet user boards, video streaming platforms, and more, teens are exposed to increased opportunities for judgment and social pressures. The ability to connect with people around the world can be fantastic because it allows for new perspectives and insights, but it also presents dangers to teens’ well-being and mindsets, which are already vulnerable. Be aware of what your teens are facing and be patient as they sort through the stimuli in their life. What’s happening on the internet?
Figuring out the best ways to spend time with the teenagers in your life can be tricky. Because social awareness is prominent in their minds, they may want to spend the majority of their free time with friends rather than family. Remind yourself why that is and try to be understanding. Don’t be disheartened if they want some space to do their own thing. They’re doing their best to figure out who they are and what role they should play in the world. You had to do the same, so let your teen know you’re there to support them.
THE AGE OF STRESS Helping Your Child Overcome Anxiety
It’s hard to imagine kids as anything but carefree, happy, and eager to explore the world around them. However, children experience stress just like adults do, which can severely impact their typically cheerful dispositions. Since April is National Stress Awareness Month, now is an opportune time to familiarize yourself with tools and information that can help you alleviate your child’s stress. What are their stressors? Any number of everyday factors can lead to stress, and stress can plague anyone who feels overwhelmed. Toddlers and young children going to day care or school for the first time may experience separation anxiety
due to being apart from their parents. Older kids and teenagers may feel mounting social and academic pressure. Even something as simple as overhearing loved ones arguing or seeing a sad news report can add to a child’s stress levels. How do I know if my child is stressed? When a kid is stressed, they will exhibit odd behavior and even undergo physical changes. Depending on your child’s age, watch for mood swings, changes in sleep patterns, headaches, trouble focusing, or withdrawal from the people around them. According to KidsHealth. org, younger children may also pick up habits like twirling their hair or sucking their thumb, while older kids may start to bully others, lie, or rebel. Can I help reduce their stress? According to KidsHealth.org, good nutrition, proper rest, and healthy attention are great ways to help kids manage their stress. Set time aside each day to talk and spend time with your children; talking about worries will reduce or relieve anxieties. If you know about an upcoming stressful situation, like a school exam or a health checkup, prepare your child by studying with them or talking to them about what to expect.
Don’t stop here. For more tools and information regarding stress reduction in children, visit KidsHealth.org or contact your doctor.
2 • www.TyWilsonLaw.com
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