Stress isn’t just a parent thing. Your kids have stress, too, and they need help to learn how to manage it.
Talking Points:
- Parents, it’s important to know what triggers your kids so you can help them wade through the challenges of stress. Don’t brush off your kids or their stresses just because you know the grass is greener on the other side of adolescence.
- Kids, be honest about your stress. Your parents may know you better than anyone, but they’re not mind readers. If you bottle up your emotions and stresses, they’ll be able to tell that you’re upset, but not necessarily why you’re upset.
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What stresses you out? Why?
- Do you think your family knows what stresses you? Why or why not?
- Parents, what are some challenges you faced as a tween/teen? Explain.
- Kids, what are some challenges you’re facing these days? Explain.
- Why is it important for parents not to ignore or brush off kids’ stress? Share an example if you have one.
- What are some things your parents should and shouldn’t do to make it safe for you to share your stresses?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
