April is Stress Awareness Month in association with Stress Management Society, and this year we are thinking about #LeadWithLove—a powerful call to action based on the principles of Unconditional Positive Regard, something that can be very challenging. It encourages us to approach ourselves and others with kindness, compassion, and acceptance, no matter the difficulties we encounter, and the transformative impact of consistent, small positive actions on overall well-being and stress

Understanding Stress in Children

Stress is not just something adults experience—children also feel overwhelmed, anxious, or pressured. Schoolwork, social challenges, and changes at home can contribute to stress. Studies show that persistent stress in childhood can impact brain development, emotional regulation, and long-term health.

By adopting a compassionate, love-led approach, we can support children in developing the tools they need to manage stress. This is where our Rise & Shine Wellbeing Programme & our Empowering Parent Programme comes in. Both are aimed at  primary-aged children to develop resilience, emotional understanding and self-confidence through targeted support based on their needs and delivered by us or by you! By embedding love, empathy, and understanding into everyday interactions, we can create environments where children feel safe, valued, and empowered. Even small acts of kindness, like offering a non-judgemental, listening ear or encouraging a moment of mindful breathing, can significantly reduce stress and promote emotional resilience in children.

Small Shifts can make a Big Difference to Stress

1. Create a Safe and Nurturing Environment

Children thrive in environments where they feel secure and understood. Offering reassurance, validating emotions, and providing consistency in your own behaviour helps children feel more settled..

Try This: Establish a daily ‘check-in’ where your child can express their feelings freely. For emotional literacy resources, visit The Zones of Regulation.

2. Encourage Movement and Play

Physical activity is one of the best ways to relieve stress. Encouraging play and movement helps children regulate emotions and build confidence.

Try This: Set aside time for unstructured outdoor play or simple movement activities like yoga or stretching. For guided sessions, check out Cosmic Kids Yoga.

3. Use Positive Language and Affirmations

The way we speak to children shapes their inner voice. Using words of encouragement and reassurance fosters self-belief and emotional security.

Try This: Encourage affirmations such as “I am strong,” “I am loved,” or “I can handle challenges.” Find free printable affirmation cards at Big Life Journal.

4. Model Mindful Breathing

Deep breathing calms the nervous system, reducing stress and promoting focus. Teaching children to pause and take mindful breaths helps them manage overwhelming emotions.

Try This: Practice ‘Five Finger Breathing’—tracing each finger while inhaling and exhaling slowly. Visit GoNoodle for more child-friendly breathing exercises.

5. Prioritise Quality Time and Connection

Spending time together without distractions strengthens relationships and provides emotional security.

Try This: Set aside ten minutes of screen-free, one-on-one time each day to talk, read, or do an activity your child enjoys.

6. Encourage Restorative Sleep

Sleep plays a crucial role in emotional regulation. A consistent bedtime routine helps children unwind and process their day.

Try This: Create a calming pre-sleep routine with dim lighting, a bedtime story, and deep breathing exercises. Find relaxation stories at Calm’s Sleep Stories.

7. Promote Creativity as a Stress Outlet

Art, music, and storytelling provide children with powerful ways to express emotions and process experiences.

Try This: Create a ‘calm corner’ stocked with colouring materials, Play-Doh, or musical instruments. Explore creative activities at The Artful Parent.

Leading with Love Makes a Difference

Stress management is not about grand gestures—it is about small, meaningful actions repeated consistently. Leading with love means fostering environments where children feel seen, heard, and valued. Research suggests that regular engagement in mindful, movement-based, and emotionally supportive activities significantly enhances children’s ability to manage stress and build resilience. Furthermore, you’ll be amazed at the impact it has on you too!

• 100% of all children that we have worked with have made progress in their area of need and feel the tools introduced have supported them in class, at home, and at play!

If you want to know more about how we can support through our Rise and Shine or Parenting Programme, please get in touch: [email protected]

Let’s Empower and Thrive by Leading with Love Together