Question: What is stressed spelled backward? Answer: Desserts! We may not know any way to turn peer pressure and academic demands into a treat, but with proper coping skills, your child will at least be able to feel in control.
To determine how he is doing, watch for:
- Changes in sleep patterns. Does he wake up frequently? Is he unable to get up in the morning? Does he complain about nightmares?
- Changes in eating habits. He may be eating too much — or too little.
- Changes in demeanor. Your usually cheerful child cries easily, or is just plain irritable.
- Changes in school routine. Is he finding excuses to stay home, and not to participate in extracurricular activities?
If you are concerned about such changes, child psychologist Carla Weidman, PhD, recommends talking with your child’s pediatrician or school counselor. Just as important: Talk with your child. “We’re all busy, but it’s important to set aside time to talk about each day’s activities,” says Dr. Weidman, who practices at the Child Development Unit of Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. To help prompt a discussion, ask questions that require more than a “yes” or “no” answer. Be patient. It’s as important to listen to the answers as it is to respond to show that you are listening.
With the school year well under way, this is a good time to ensure that your child is not just doing ok, but is effectively handling the responsibilities placed on him, says Dr. Weidman. “Our kids are juggling homework, reports and tests as well as pressure to fit into social circles.”
Pay attention to what your child says about his teachers. This may be a good time to schedule a parent-teacher meeting to review curricula and homework expectations. Before you join your kid in complaining that there’s too much homework:
- Help him create a homework schedule. Encourage him to take advantage of extra time — such as study hall — to complete assignments.
- Provide a quiet, well-lit space that is conducive to reading and writing.
- Set up 15-minute breaks for you and your child to stretch and talk.
Encourage your kids to speak out against bullying. Others will join them to stop this violent behavior.
You can help boost your child’s confidence by encouraging him to participate in extracurricular activities outside of school. This will help him create new social groups and gain new proficiencies.
Your child will be well-prepared if:
- He is well-rested. Kids need sleep for mental and physical growth.
- He is well-nourished. Studies show that kids who eat breakfast do better in school.
- He stays active. Exercise (30-60 minutes a day) is as good for the mind as it is for the body.