Seeing little Lucy mimic adult stress reactions was both amusing and enlightening. She had her own ideas about what makes people feel stressed and how they might respond. However, when it comes to real-life stress, children often struggle to identify the source of their emotions or how to react appropriately. Their still-growing brains and bodies leave them particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of prolonged stress.
“Stress” is commonly associated with negative emotions these days, but Dr. Hans Selye, who coined the term in 1936, described it as “the non-specific response of the body to any demand for change.” In this sense, stress can be a normal and even beneficial reaction to challenges. A little bit of stress can be helpful for children, teaching them how to navigate new experiences and adjust to the unexpected. This “positive stress” is temporary, induces only minor physical changes, and, when managed well, contributes positively to a child’s growth.
However, excessive stress, referred to as “toxic stress,” can be detrimental to a child’s physical and neurological development. Long-lasting stress—such as exposure to physical abuse, neglect, or witnessing violence at home—can lead to a range of issues, as noted by the CDC. Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, affect memory, and even lower IQ. These consequences stem from significant neurological disruptions that occur when children are repeatedly exposed to situations they can’t control.
Parents shouldn’t shy away from letting their kids experience some stress; instead, they should be attentive to ensure it remains within a positive realm. Major life events, like a divorce or the loss of a loved one, can be difficult for children, but with the support of caring adults, they can often recover. Research indicates that even toxic stress can be mitigated or reversed through the dependable presence and responsiveness of a nurturing caregiver.
Love is a powerful force! A stable environment with supportive adults helps children learn healthy coping mechanisms for stress. It’s completely normal for your child to throw a fit when getting a shot or to cry for a while when trying to sleep alone. These reactions are just part of positive stress and the developmental journey.
So when little Lucy put on a show about being stressed, I just chuckled and handed her a refreshing glass of juice with lunch. It’s all part of the fun!
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In summary, while some stress is a natural part of childhood development, it’s crucial for parents to recognize the difference between positive and toxic stress. With love and a stable support system, children can learn to manage stress in healthy ways.