The 4 signs of stress or distress in toddlers include developing repetitive behaviors, behavioral regression, disrupted sleep and extreme clinginess.
Other common signs of stress and distress in toddlers and children include.
Emotional outbursts or increased irritability. Stress leads to stronger feelings of anger and irritability.
Trouble sleeping. Worries and fears seem to come out during bedtime.
Withdrawing from others.
Struggles with school.
Frequent headaches or stomachaches.
Increased defiance.
Behavioral therapy for toddlers is a type of therapy that teaches the toddler and their families how to strengthen positive child behaviors and eliminate or reduce unwanted or problem behaviors.
One type of behavioral therapy is parent training in behavior management.
The therapist works with parents to learn or improve skills to manage the toddlers behavior.
Behavioral therapy is predicated on four main principles: Reinforcement of good behavior with praise and/or some sort of reward.
Discouraging unwanted behavior by ignoring it so a child doesn't get negative attention.
Taking away a privilege for egregious behavior that can't be ignored.
From tantrums and meltdowns to asserting their independence by saying "no" or ignoring the rules, these 3- and 4-year-old behaviors are normal.
In fact, they are a natural part of growing up.
But sometimes, these behavior issues become problematic.
Here are a few of the most common regressions that signal that your child may need counseling: Bedwetting (when already night trained) Frequent temper tantrums.
Separation anxiety and clinginess.
Mental health problems in children and young people (CYP) include several types of emotional and behavioral disorders, including disruptive, depression, anxiety and pervasive developmental (autism) disorders, characterized as either “internalizing” or “externalizing”.
Parents typically attend 8-16 sessions with a therapist and learn strategies to help their child.
Sessions may involve groups or individual families.
After therapy ends, families continue to experience improved behavior and reduced stress.
It's best to speak to your pediatrician or specialist if your child is exhibiting consistent undesirable behavior that puts them or other children in danger or makes social situations impossible.
Your child may need a professional assessment or have special needs that need to be navigated.