Both positive and negative events contribute to stress.
Stress is part of life.
Many children experience stress as a result of common changes, such as starting school or day care, the birth of a new baby, illness, separation or divorce, change of parent's employment, moving to a new location, or death in the family. Other stresses are unusual and traumatic. Children may be homeless, live in fear from violence in their schools or neighborhoods, or be survivors of natural disasters. They may be children having children. Recognizing that stress exists and ensuring that basic physical needs are met is important.