When Stress Becomes Something More
Stress in Kids: What Ontario Parents Need to Know
Seeing your child stressed can be heartbreaking, and it's hard to know when worry becomes something more serious. The good news? Most childhood stress is completely normal and helps kids learn to cope with life's challenges.
What's going on?
Stress is your child's natural response to new, challenging, or overwhelming situations. Think starting school, moving to a new home, or even exciting events like birthdays. Their little bodies and minds are still learning how to process big feelings and experiences.
Every child handles stress differently. Some kids might get clingy, others might act out, and some retreat into themselves. These reactions are all normal parts of growing up and developing emotional skills.
The key difference between normal stress and concerning stress usually comes down to intensity, duration, and how much it affects your child's daily life.
What you might notice with normal stress
- Temporary changes in sleep or appetite
- Some clinginess or wanting extra comfort
- Occasional tears or tantrums
- Brief periods of not wanting to do usual activities
- Physical complaints like tummy aches that come and go
- Being more sensitive than usual
What helps at home
Creating a calm, predictable routine gives kids a sense of security when everything else feels uncertain. Keep bedtimes consistent, have regular family meals, and build in quiet time for connection.
Listen without immediately trying to fix everything. Sometimes kids just need to be heard. Ask open ended questions like "Tell me about your day" rather than "Did you have a good day?"
Teach simple coping strategies together. Deep breathing, counting to ten, or having a special stuffed animal for comfort can become tools they use independently.
When to worry
Head to emergency if your child talks about hurting themselves or others, has severe panic attacks where they can't breathe, or shows sudden, extreme personality changes.
Consider talking to a provider through Arlo or your family doctor if stress symptoms last more than a few weeks, interfere with school or friendships, or if your child seems stuck in their worry. Also reach out if you notice significant changes in eating, sleeping, or bathroom habits that don't improve with time and support.
The takeaway
Most childhood stress is temporary and manageable with your love and support. Trust your parental instincts about what feels normal for your child.
You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!
References - [Managing stress in children and youth](https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/behavior-and-development/managingstressinchildrenand_youth)
- [Anxiety in children](https://aboutkidshealth.ca/article?contentid=271&language=english)
- [Children's mental health](https://ontario.ca/page/childrens-mental-health)