Page 39 - Unit 8: Signs of Stress
P. 39
What does this all mean to our practice?
BY UNDERSTANDING WHAT HAPPENS UNDER STRESS, WE CAN BETTER SUPPORT CHILDREN TO
GET BACK ON TRACK
1 We should teach children recognize the very early signs of stress in themselves. This will
give them a better chance of noticing stressors early and learning strategies to stay in
control and let people know what they need positively. This is crucial for a child’s good
mental health and well-being now and into the future.
2 We should teach children to recognize the early signs of stress in each other and the best
way to respond (see Unit 13). This helps children to feel less fearful of peers who struggle:
understanding signs of stress and what underlies them makes it is easier to take it it less
personally when someone is throwing their prickles around:
▪ Teaching children to recognize the early signs of stress in each other and the best way
to respond is also very empowering for them.
▪ It also means that instead of one adult trying to support the children who struggle,
the whole class / family can support each other. This reduces the pressure on adults.
▪ Being skilled in responding to people showing signs of stress is also an incredibly
valuable life skill for children to develop. It will be crucial in their success working in a
team, getting on with neighbours and developing successful relationships.
