(HealthDay News) — Stress is a function of the demands placed on people and their ability to meet them, the Nemours Foundation says.

Stress affects anyone who feels overwhelmed, including children. Signs of a stressed child include mood swings, acting out, changes in sleep patterns or bedwetting, the foundation says. Additional signs may be stomachache, headache, trouble concentrating or appearing withdrawn.

Nemours suggests how to help your child manage stress:

• Make sure the child gets enough sleep and eats a nutritious diet.
• Set aside time each day to speak with your child.
• Don’t force a child to talk about what’s bothersome.
• Anticipate and prepare the child for stressful situations.
• Use a character is your child’s favorite book to identify a stressful situation and to learn how the character worked things out.

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