You can also help your child by anticipating potentially stressful situations and preparing her for them. For example, let her know ahead of time that she has a doctor appointment , and talk about what will happen there. Let her know that other people would have the same feelings in her situation. Some books allow young children to identify with stressed characters and learn how they cope. In by Barbara Shook Hazen, and My Grandpa Died Today by Joan Fassler.
Most parents have the skills necessary to deal with their child's stress.
The time to seek professional attention is when any change in behavior persists or when you have repeatedly failed to resolve the problem. If you are unsuccessful after several attempts to get to the source of your child's troubles, see your child's doctor and talk to the counselors and teachers at your child's school. These sources can lead you to competent, professional help. The Nemours Foundation is a nonprofit organization devoted to children's health and is the largest physician practice delivering subspecialty pediatric care in the United States. Inc. All rights reserved.