More and more kids, unfortunately, have been experiencing stress, worry and anxiety. This was again made more prominent when our children’s regular routines were put into constant disarray due to the impact of COVID. These feelings can be disheartening and overwhelming.

What does stress look like in children? This can actually look different to stress for an adult. If you have noticed that your child has become very quiet or suddenly speaks fast and becomes difficult to understand what they are saying. Are they spending more time in their room and not wanting to come out? Are they trying to avoid places or activities that remind them of these stressful events or activities? Are they not as engaged in the family as they once were? These are potential signs that they are stressed, worried and/or anxious.

Other indicators may include;

• Difficulty sleeping, changes in sleep patterns or nightmares.
• Restlessness, on edge or increases in activity levels (constantly on the go).
• Complaining of headaches or stomach aches.
• Easily agitated; bothered by things they are usually okay with.
• Increased meltdowns and tantrums
• Decreased attention
• More clingy behaviours

However, there is a multitude of strategies that can be applied to help ease these overwhelming feelings and thoughts. These strategies are founded within mindfulness.

Some strategies include:

• Breathing exercises
• Physical exercise
• Having the feeling named and normalised “It sounds like you are anxious. I understand. Anxiety can be tricky. Can I help?”
• Talk about concerns or worries your child may have

Want more information on mindfulness and the mindfulness products we recommend? Read ‘Making Mindful Children‘ or learn more about our group programs.

Spring Forward has child and adolescent counselling services available to help support them through difficult circumstances and uncomfortable emotions. Meet our Counsellor Danielle or find out more about our counselling services.

Alphabreaths

In Alphabreaths, children will learn their ABCs and the basics of mindfulness through playful breathing exercises.

My Emotions Journal

For Kids And Teens – Help Children And Tweens Express Their Emotions – Reduce Anxiety, Anger And Depression.

My Book of Feelings

Help kids with attachment difficulties, learning or developmental disabilities understand their emotions.

MHNSF Pty Ltd T/A Spring Forward Family Centre is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Nervous about your child’s first year of school? Worried if your child will thrive?

How do you know if your child is ready?

Beginning school can be a scary thing for both your child and you as a parent. You might be wondering if your child is ready academically, socially and emotionally.

What is really needed when transitioning to big school and what can you do if you feel your child may not be completely ready? Being socially and emotionally ready for school are the most common concerns! Not just writing, cutting and attention for learning. It’s a big thing to be 4 or 5, meeting so many new people, new rules and new environments.

Here are 5 tips you can do at home to help

1. Celebrate your child’s achievements

Take time to point out and speak about the times your child was brave, did something well and tried their best. Enjoy these moments, no matter how big or small whenever you can.

2. Encourage your child to participate in group and peer activities

Encourage them to participate in activities in the community, meeting new people and doing new things

3. Talk to them about their feelings

Ask them what they found tricky, what they loved and how they felt before, during and after an activity. Starting this habit before school will help them to share their achievements each day after school.

4. Explain why it is important to follow rules and practice some of these at home

Adjusting to school rules can be tricky. Play your games in different places; at a table, on the floor, outside and make reference to the routines at kindergarten that are also in these places.

5. Talk about big school, and visit as much as you can

Don’t only focus on the good things, listen to your child’s concerns/things that worry them. Validation and reassurance is very powerful. Also talk about what they are looking forward to.

Starting a new school year with new teachers, classes and expectations can make children a little nervous. Some children may still be feeling the effects of the COVID lockdown which can make this time even harder.

Here are some ways you could help your child manage their feelings.

1. Show confidence and excitement when talking about school. This sends a positive message to your child.

2. Talk and listen to your child about their feelings. Let them know it is ok to feel how they feel.

3. Encourage your children to reconnect with school friends. Set up a playdate.

4. Give your child a little control. Let them pick their school lunch or afterschool activities.

5. Incorporate breathing exercises and muscle relaxation activities.

Practical ways to maintain positive emotions around school.

6. Maintain a healthy diet, physical activities and sleep routine.

7. Do a special activity with your child in the afternoon/evening. i.e. read them a book before bed.

8. When your child is ready, get them back into extra-curricular activities.

9. Encourage your child to exercise self-compassion. i.e.. positive affirmations, “I’m trying my hardest, it’s ok that I need help with my homework today”

Need a little more support?

Our Spring Forward team is here to help! Our experienced counsellors have created two holiday programs that help children embrace mindfulness and boost their self-esteem. Our ‘Mindful Magic’ group provides children with different strategies to help overcome confronting feelings and manage stress in everyday life. ‘Esteem Team’ is a fun and supportive program where children will learn about self-esteem, what it means to them, strategies to support themselves and language to use with others. Learn more.

If you are interested in these programs secure your spot in our April 2022 School Holiday Programs or express your interest in our after school programs.

Prefer one-on-one sessions?

Our Spring Forward team includes two experienced counsellors who assist children to express themselves in a healthy and productive way that can alleviate any restrictive emotional states such as anxiety and stress. Our counsellors provide understanding and compassion while building skills to assist in becoming self-aware and fostering self-growth.

Learn more about counselling at Spring Forward or contact us for bookings and enquiries.