THE AGE OF STRESS Helping Your Child Overcome Anxiety
How do I know if my child is stressed?
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
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,
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. Hit the Road There’s always something to do in Memphis! We’re a diverse city perfect for music lovers, foodies, families, and more, but sometimes, escaping from the city for a day is just what we need. Thankfully, we live in the heartland, so we are surrounded by family-friendly destinations no matter which direction we go. Heber Springs, Arkansas Just three hours west of Memphis is an oasis for people of all ages. With cliffs ranging in height from 3–30 feet, this daredevil’s paradise is perfect for those who love the adrenaline rush of jumping into the water and for those who would rather just relax and play on the beach. After a day at the springs, enjoy dinner at one of Heber Springs’ local eateries or explore the historic downtown. Be careful, however — you just might find your day trip turning into a weekend getaway. Tennessee Safari Park There are few places where you can feed giraffes, hold birds, and drive past zebras, primates, and kookaburras, but you can do all that and more at the Tennessee Safari Park in Alamo, Tennessee, just 80 miles south of Memphis.
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.
THE BEST FAMILY- AND BUDGET-FRIENDLY LOCAL DAY TRIPS
What began as one farming family’s unique collection of animals has transformed into a safari park, petting zoo, and educational area. Visitors of all ages can interact with various animals and learn about conservation efforts. Admission into the park is $16 for adults, $12 for children, and free for children ages 1 and under.
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
There’s no better place to learn about our connections to the
Mississippi River than at Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. Just 15 miles away from Memphis, the park offers no shortage of fun to be had. With regular educational events, hiking trails, and kayaking opportunities, your family can explore the park and our native wildlife in whichever way you prefer. The best part is that a visit to the park is free!
Visit MemphisTravel.com for more local day trips and things to do in Memphis and to stay updated on any possible closures due to global health concerns.
2 • DouglassRunger.com
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