Worries are a natural part of growing up, evolving as children journey through various stages of development. Understanding these concerns can help parents and caregivers provide appropriate support.
1.Preschoolers (3-5 years): At this age, separation anxiety tops the list. Kids worry about being away from their caregivers, fearing abandonment or unfamiliar surroundings. They might also fret about imaginary creatures or things they don't understand.
2.Early Elementary (6-8 years): Academics and social acceptance become focal points. Worries about school performance, making friends, and fitting in often arise. Fear of failure in tasks and sports can also creep in.
3.Preteens (9-12 years): Increased independence brings worries about peer pressure, body image, and puberty-related changes. Concerns about social status, academic expectations, and online interactions start to take precedence.
4.Teens (13-18 years): Identity, future, and relationships dominate their concerns. Teens worry about career choices, academic pressure, romantic relationships, and the overwhelming uncertainty about their future.
Understanding these age-specific worries allows parents and guardians to offer tailored support, guidance, and reassurance.
HOW CAN PARENT OR GUARDIAN HELP CHILDREN FACING THIS CHALLENGE?
The Best way of handling this situation that works incredibly well for all age groups is to read, mediate, and do what Philippians 4:6-8 says with the child.
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:6-8 (NLT)”
Then add the following to it.
Preschoolers (3-5 years):
- Reassurance and Routine: Establishing a consistent routine can help ease separation anxiety. Reassure them of your return and explain where you'll be.
- Provide Comfort Objects: Offering a familiar toy or item can provide comfort in unfamiliar situations.
- Encourage Expression: Encourage them to express their fears through drawing or storytelling.
Early Elementary (6-8 years):
- Positive Reinforcement: Praise efforts and progress to boost confidence in academics and social interactions.
- Teach Coping Strategies: Help them develop problem-solving skills and coping strategies to handle social challenges or school stress.
- Promote Social Skills: Encourage activities that foster social connections, like group sports or clubs.
Preteens (9-12 years):
- Open Communication: Create a safe space for open conversations about puberty, body changes, and peer pressure.
- Model Healthy Behaviors: Set an example by demonstrating healthy coping mechanisms and stress management techniques.
- Encourage Independence: Guide them in making decisions and taking responsibility while providing a safety net for support.
Teens (13-18 years):
- Respect Their Independence: Allow them space to make choices while being available for guidance when needed.
- Listen Actively: Be an active listener without judgment, letting them share their concerns or thoughts.
- Support Future Planning: Assist in exploring career options, college choices, and provide guidance on decision-making without imposing your preferences.
Conclusion:
Remember that God made you the parent or guardian of that boy or girl for such a time as this. Make use of all the tools He has provided for you.
Ephesians 6:4 …And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, BUT BRING THEM UP IN THE TRAINING AND ADMONITION OF THE LORD.
Stay Blessed.
