Research indicates that the brain functions at an optimal level when stress is reduced. Possible "stressors" for gifted students may include; striving for perfection, living up to unrealistic expectations, feeling different, threats as perceived by world events, boredom, and even new situations.
To help in children's social/emotional development, they may benefit from some of the following techniques to reduce stress:
Monitor an "over-scheduled" life. Allow free time to create and relax.
Allow children to be "human beings", not humans doing. Accept them for who they are, not what they accomplish.
Lighten up on expectations.
Encourage age-appropriate play. We all need play time!
Monitor children's exposure to news and media. They are very sensitive to critical issues that are out of their control.
Keep the channels of communication and support OPEN. Listen to their concerns without judgement or trying to "fix" things.
Value children just as they are.
Warmly,
Tricia Beck
Thrive Life Coaching
P.S. This is my very first-ever Blog. Your feedback is very much appreciated and requests for future topics are encouraged. Thanks for reading!
