LETTER

"... Sunday she started crying about not wanting to go to school on Monday. She cried this morning and was up at 6:30 a.m. Her Mom talked to her and told her she would have a lot of fun in school. Danielle continued to cry and say she felt funny in here, as she put little hand over her heart... Carolyn, how can I guide a six year old?!

Thank God for Lucinda and you and the many people who work at the Midwest Center! I want to nip this in the bud for my granddaughter. "

Dear Grandmom,

We are hearing so much more about children and stress disorders. I get at least 2 calls a week on the subject. It is so difficult to watch our children and grandchildren suffer the same pain as we once did. I have a granddaughter who went through separation anxiety. I held one of my daughters back because of school anxiety –She is now a kindergarten teacher!

Children, even very young children, can be taught the 6 steps. Start with the breathing. Then help them with simple self-talk. I have designed some and would be glad to send a handout that includes suggestions. (Requests: carolyn@stresscenter.com)

I'm sure that her mom has talked with the teacher, school counselor and any adult who interacts with Danielle at school.

Dr. Ron Rubenzer, will be publishing a book in October, HOW THE BEST HANDLE STRESS. (704- 907-0143) His clever use and arrangement of words make some potentially dry facts come alive. He has given me permission to reproduce some of Chapter 15, Children: Stress Cures At Home.

"Listen to your child and take a real recess.

I hope the old saying, there's no place like home, is true or children. However, some children may not experience peace of mind at home. To help address the growing need for stress management for children, this Chapter will examine the following eight topics.

~ The epidemic need for Stress Management for children.
~ Which children are at most risk for stress and substance abuse? You'd be surprised.
~ Stress: a growing problem linked to increased drug abuse.
~ Snapping under stress—the final act.
~ Stress cures at home and 10 warning signs of excessive stress.
~ The terrific or terrible teens—It is a choice.
~ Seven Tips for dealing with school stress.
~ Getting off on the right foot—managing school mornings.

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