Children are the future of society, and they can experience a number of stressors throughout childhood. These stressors can have a profoundly negative impact on a child’s development, which is why it’s important for teachers and parents to promote healthy home and school environments. Extensive research on the biology of stress shows that healthy development can be derailed by excessive activation of stress response systems in both the body and brain. There are generally three levels of stressors:
Positive stress
Positive stress is known as good stress or “eustress”. It is the type of stress that happens in our day-to-day life, and that may cause a temporary increase in our stress level from which we quickly recover. Some examples of positive stress can include going mountain climbing for the first time or hoping to get promoted at your job. For children, it can include learning to ride a bicycle, getting immunizations at the doctor’s office, or the first day of school.
Tolerable stress
Tolerable stress activates the body’s alert systems to a greater degree as a result of more severe, longer-lasting difficulties, such as the loss of a loved one, a natural disaster, or a frightening injury. This type of stress causes significant levels of stress in a child. It takes more effort to recover and the stress lasts a bit longer. Over time, the child’s mind and body recover due largely to the relationships with adults who love and care about them. When loved ones help them adapt, a child’s brain and organs recover from what might be damaging effects.
Toxic stress
Toxic stress occurs when a child experiences strong, frequent, and prolonged adversity, such as physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. This kind of prolonged activation of the stress response systems can disrupt the development of a child’s brain architecture and other organ systems. It also increases the risk for stress-related disease and cognitive impairment that lasts for an extended period of time. Research suggests that childhood trauma can alter the developing brain in a number of ways.
When toxic stress occurs continually, or is triggered by several sources, it can have a cumulative toll on an individual’s physical and mental health, for a lifetime. The more traumatic experiences in childhood, the greater the likelihood of developmental delays and later health problems, including heart disease, depression, or diabetes. However, good relationships with friends and families can help prevent the damaging effects of the toxic stress response in children.
Here is a few suggested resources for parents:
Get information from fellow parents
Everyone needs love and support during the difficult times, especially children. It’s very helpful to learn more about the support that has helped other parents, from other parents.
Study free activities guides
There are a number of simple free, age-appropriate activities that can help build your child’s brain and create a stronger bond between child and parents. Study these kinds of activities and learn the suggestions will help your child develop and grow to meet their full potential.
Meta Description: Childhood stressors can have a profoundly negative impact on a child’s development, which is why it’s important for teachers and parents to promote healthy home and school environments. Generally, there are three levels of stressors: positive stress, tolerable stress, and toxic stress.
References: https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/stress-and-resilience-how-toxic-stress-affects-us-and-what-we-can-do-about-it/