Watch Your Kids Closely!

We have an 18 year old in high school.  He is an amazing young man.  He is number one in his senior class, President of his class, etc.   Yet, sometimes I wonder if I or my spouse are pushing him too much.  I mean, he seems pretty well adjusted.  He is not a nerdy, all books and no play kind of kid, he exercises regularly, just seems to have his act together.  Of course, I am saying this as I knock on a piece of wood.

In a few days, I am going to see a new movie called “Race to Nowhere,” which apparently is about the stress that our kids are under these days.  Just look at getting into college.  You can have a 4.0 grade point average is still not get into a good college.  And the pressure to build up a resume is incredible.

Years ago, a counselor in my son’s elementary school noticed that he seemed stressful and she alerted us to the situation.  It was more serious than we thought, but we got him some help for his anxiety and he is what he is today.   Still, I am always watching for signs of stress.

In that regard, the American Academy of Pediatrics has just compiled a list of signs that might indicate that your child may be under too much stress.  Take a look at them.  You could be saving your kid’s life:

Physical complaints such as a stomach ache or headache.

Fatigue, restlessness or agitation.

Irritability and loss of interest in favorite activities.

Lack of interest in school, dropping grades.

Behavioral changes such as lying, stealing, avoiding responsibilities at home or becoming more dependent on parents.