Stress is a part of life, and no one is immune—not even young children in preschool. Everything from being overtired to major life changes, like a new sibling or moving to a new home, can trigger stress that often manifests in their behavior. A stressed toddler might cry more than usual, have trouble sleeping, be especially clingy, or act out. Help your child learn to manage stress and develop healthy coping skills with the following tips. 

How to Help Young Children Manage Stress

1. Stick to a Routine

Young children are comforted by routines. Structured time helps them know what to expect and fosters feelings of safety. Following a daily routine can eliminate worries of the unknown, while also helping kids feel more in control of their time.

2. Prioritize Sleep

Preschool-age children need up to 14 hours of sleep per day. An overtired child is often a stressed child, which results in a stressed parent. Stick to an established bedtime, and develop a routine, including factors like baths and books, to help your little one wind down and get ready for sleep.

3. Help Them Name Their Feelings

Young children have emotions but aren’t always sure how to express them. This can exacerbate symptoms of stress. Help them to name their feelings by validating their emotions.

When your preschooler cries or throws toys in frustration, you could say, “I see you are frustrated that your toy isn’t working. Let’s work together to fix it.” Reading stories that deal with different emotions can help your child communicate and handle stress more effectively. 

4. Reduce Your Stress

Preschool children are often mirrors of others around them. When you’re stressed, your child will also show signs of stress. Slowing down and demonstrating how to manage your own stress will teach your kids how to do the same.

Work on identifying areas that are creating stress. If your mornings are frenzied and rushed, make changes, so they’re calmer and more efficient. Getting up earlier to give yourself more time will help everyone start the day on the right foot. 

5. Let Them Make Mistakes

Children often feel stressed because they feel like they need to get everything right, even on the first try. Instead, encourage your little one to safely explore the world, experiment, and learn from their mistakes. Teach them that making mistakes is part of life and a learning process and that it’s okay to get things wrong. 

The experienced caregivers at the Big Blue Bird Early Childhood Center in Lexington, KY, are here to help you give your child the skills they need to manage stress. For over 40 years, they've provided the families of Fayette County with quality day care programs for young children from 6 weeks old to preschool-aged. Call (859) 299-9277 to schedule a tour. Visit their website to find out more.