Following are some tips for parents in response to the recent APA Stress in America survey. For more information or tips visit www.apahelpcenter.org.
Be Available
-
Notice times when your kids are most likely to talk — for example, at bedtime, before dinner, in the car — and be fully available to just listen.
-
Initiate conversations by sharing what you have been thinking about, or what other kids may be thinking about, rather than beginning a conversation with a question.
Listen Actively
-
When your children are talking about concerns, stop whatever you are doing and listen.
-
Listen to their point of view, even if it’s difficult to hear.
-
Let them complete their point before you respond.
-
Realize that your children may test you by telling you a small part of what is bothering them. Listen carefully to what they say, encourage them to talk and they may share the rest of the story.
Respond Thoughtfully
-
Express your opinion without minimizing theirs — acknowledge that it’s okay to disagree.
-
Ask your children what they may want or need from you in a conversation, such as advice, help in dealing with feelings or assistance in solving a problem.
Consider
-
Kids learn by watching their parents. Most often, they will follow your lead in how they deal with anger, solve problems and work through difficult feelings. Help your kids to adopt healthy coping strategies by modeling positive behaviors.
-
Engage the family in stress-reducing activities, such as taking a family walk, riding bikes or dancing together.
