PHOTOGRAPHY
Courtesy of the Francis family
educate
J
Minute with Mom
maskmatters.org
SPRING 2018
48
S
tress is a natural and normal part of children’s lives.
Stress is the body’s physical, chemical, and emotional
reaction to an overwhelming, confusing or exciting
situation. And even though
their lives may seem so
simple, children of all ages can
experience stress. It is essential that
we teach our children ways to help
them cope with stress.
Children learn by modeling
and will mirror what they see. If
children see their mothers using
appropriate coping skills while
under stress, they will be more likely to use those same effective
coping skills when they are under stress. For me, raising three
children, being a business owner and a doctor of clinical
psychology, life can be stressful.Thus, it is critical that
I effectively manage my stress.
Last year, I made a commitment to practice
yoga once a week. Not only has it helped me stay in
shape, but more importantly, it has also benefitted me
mentally. Yoga helps me connect with my breath and
promotes relaxation.
A method called “belly breathing” can be an
effective strategy in helping reduce stress. I have my
children practice belly breathing by having them put
their hand on their stomach and one hand on their
chest. We playfully practice belly breathing while
promoting relaxation.
Of course, there have been occasions
when my two older children have become
scared or worried.Their feelings of stress
can become overwhelming, so teaching them
mindfulness is a great strategy. We play a game
called 3-2-1, in which I have them pick a color
in the room and ask them to tell me three things
in the room that are that color. Next, I have them
tell me three things they hear (traffic, people,
humming sound from air conditioning). Lastly, I
have them say three things they are touching (the
couch, the floor, their shirt). We do this again, but
this time it goes down to two items. Eventually,
the game becomes one color, one sound, and one
tactile sensation.The rule is they cannot pick the
same visual, auditory or tactile sensation for any of
the rounds. By the time the activity ends, they are
no longer distraught and feel peaceful and calm.
At the end of the day, what is most important
in reducing stress for my children is connection.
They need to feel my presence and full attention is
on them, not social media or work.
Disengagement, the art of not caring about
others, is the deepest betrayal. And yet, it can
happen so haphazardly. So look up, not down.
Engage and connect with your children.They are
waiting for you.
LOOK UP, NOT DOWN
By // Dr. Morgan Francis
At the end of the day,
what is most important
in reducing stress for my
children is connection.
They need to feel
my presence and full
attention is on them, not
social media or work.
