Many parents think that we can secretly deal with stress without affecting our children. The fact is, children are very sensitive to the emotional climate surrounding them. Some words are experienced even without voicing them to those around you
Feelings at home
Every home has an emotional tone; the warmth, care, and accommodation. When parents are calm and responsive, children feel free and safe.
When stress is always present, whether it is due to work, financial worries or personal pressure, their sense of security begins to shift.
A stressed parent can easily be irritable, distracted and emotionally unavailable. Children notice these changes quickly. Without fully understanding the cause, they may assume that it is their fault that mum or dad is angry.
Behaviour in response
Kids respond to parental strain differently. Some show this change through actions. When a child acts aggressively, defiantly or seeks excessive attention, it is often their way of getting reassurance or connection.
A happy child can easily withdraw, become quiet, anxious, or overly eager to please you, trying not to contribute to the “problem.” This can make them look more mature, but as a parent you should be worried.
Impacts on education and self-belief
The Foundation of concentration and curiosity is emotional well-being. When a child is unsettled at home, their focus is affected. This makes them lose their confidence, focus and doubt their own abilities and efforts.
Long-term stress exposure can also become an embedded response for children since their system operates on alert rather than at ease.
What to do
Stress in families is inevitable. What matters most is how we deal with it.
“I am sorry I shouted at you earlier, I was overwhelmed. Not because of you.”
Bring them closer and hug them; this reassurance will make your child feel at ease, restoring their sense of security, which can help strengthen your relationship even further.
Supporting parents supports children
Parental well-being is also equally important as that of your child. Parents who have support from friends, the community or professional help, their children benefit directly.
It is not selfish to care for yourself. Shielding your child from your emotional struggle is how you ensure that your child isn’t affected, and you have a happy family.
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