[Molly]

I like to take walks with no headphones during my breaks. I try to spend the whole walk just being present and noticing the world around me and trying to not get stuck in my head. When it comes to feeling frustrated with a child, I always remind myself they are just a child and still learning how to be a person, and this helps me regain perspective. Taking some deep breaths is always good.

[Dana]

I relieve stress by working on creative projects, I flip furniture or crochet or read.

[Alecxix]

in stressful situations i walk away to take deep breaths and compose myself. it doesn’t happen often but i make sure to listen to my body when its getting agitated. i also in my free time i workout and listen to music or podcasts

[Loan Vo]

Working with children can indeed be rewarding, but it can also be emotionally demanding. Managing stress is crucial for maintaining well-being in such roles. Here are some techniques that can help release stress for those working with children:

1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques:

   • Practice mindfulness meditation or deep-breathing exercises to stay present and calm.
   • Use progressive muscle relaxation techniques to release physical tension.

2. Regular Physical Exercise:

   • Engage in regular physical activity, such as jogging, yoga, or dance, to release endorphins and reduce stress.

3. Creative Outlets:

   • Pursue creative activities like drawing, painting, or crafting as a form of self-expression and stress relief.

4. Establish Boundaries:

   • Set clear boundaries between work and personal life to prevent burnout. Take breaks and time for self-care.

5. Connect with Peers:

   • Build a support network with colleagues who understand the challenges. Share experiences and offer mutual support.

6. Reflective Practices:

   • Incorporate reflective practices to process emotions and experiences. Journaling or discussing challenging situations with a mentor can be beneficial.

7. Seek Professional Support:

   • If stress becomes overwhelming, consider seeking support from a mental health professional.

8. Mindful Breathing:

   • Take short breaks during the day to practice mindful breathing. Focus on your breath to center yourself and reduce stress.

9. Positive Affirmations:

   • Use positive affirmations to reinforce your strengths and accomplishments. Remind yourself of the positive impact you have on children’s lives.

10. Hobbies and Interests:

    • Engage in hobbies and activities outside of work that bring joy and relaxation.

11. Laugh and Have Fun:

    • Incorporate moments of joy and laughter into your day. Playful interactions with children can be a source of joy.

12. Professional Development:

    • Invest in continuous professional development to enhance your skills and confidence, reducing stress associated with feeling unprepared.

[enshu a]

Listening to music, deep breathing and walking.

[Ariel Gross]

I like to bike at the gym, talk to friends and laugh, hang out with my rabbit, journal.

[Enedina Carmona]

It might be helpful to form a social support network with friends or coworkers who are aware of the difficulties. It’s critical to establish boundaries between work and personal life and to take regular pauses for self-care. Writing about or talking about experiences are examples of reflective behaviors that aid in processing and learning from trying circumstances.

[Taylor]

When it comes to stress in the workplace I have a pretty good gig. My center has specific rules that allow us to take breaks when we need, we have many assistance when we need to take a quick breather. I have found in the workplace My stress is pretty well tamed then when I get home it all lets loose. When I am stressed, I also dissociate, for this I love a shower, or any physical experience (yoga, hot or ice pack, balancing on 1 foot, going on a walk) time to reflect, or write also helps me a lot with my stress.

[socorro]

Yes I breath slowly and drink some water, i go for a walk in my break at work, i sit and do some drawings for children to color, at home i listen to music and i dance.

[edith]

positive self talk, deep breathe, shake it off and move on to next technique.

[angie drummond]

working out, take a deep breath

[Ashley Socia]

I’ve been working with children for a very long time and the majority of the time the technique that works for me is slow breathing and having quiet time to myself I have to schedule in the beginning and end of my days and time for me to do this in order for my day to feel smooth

[Sally]

Here are some tips that some people find helpful for stress relief in emotionally demanding work environment such as working with children:

1- Mindfulness and meditation

2- physical activity

3- Self-Care practices

4- Seeking support

5- Reflective practices

6- Boundaries and Time Management

7- Professional Development

[Will Pautler]

Sometimes my coworkers and I complain a bit together, mostly about our outside like stressors and just get it all out. I scream in my car, listen to loud glam rock or disco on the drive home, or stand outside in the freezing cold to cool myself off when I’m feeling heated.

[Christin Cormier]

It is important to find ways to destress when working with children because our stress will impact our interactions with them if we do not manage it properly.

I have found music to be helpful. Deep breathing and regular exercise are also very helpful in reducing stress. I also believe it is important to have positive relationships at work. These are the people you can laugh and cry with that help you get through the rough days. Prayer is at the top of my list!