Children who do not get enough sleep will not have the energy required to combat life s stresses. Parents should make sure their children get enough sleep every night. A regular bedtime should be maintained. Getting enough rest is critical to children s mental and physical health. Model appropriate coping skills.
Children learn by watching their parents.
If children see their parents using appropriate coping skills when they are under stress, they will be more likely to use appropriate skills when they experience stress, too. Parents should try to demonstrate that stress is normal and can be handled in a calm and effective manner. Parents should try to be optimists who view a stressor as a challenge rather than a catastrophe. Have your children learn relaxation skills. Relaxation skills can help children release tension caused by stress.