Positive stress is crucial for building resilience in children, allowing them to experience and recover from small disappointments and challenges. This type of stress, such as not getting a desired toy, going to the doctor, going to a new school, or losing a game, helps children learn to cope with adversity and develop skills like perspective-taking and problem solving, which are essential for thriving despite setbacks. While parents can support their child in handling this stress, it isn't something they have to "fix."

When positive stresses come up at your next visit, try these explanations with parents:

1. Positive stress = "muscle builder": Encourage parents to see positive stress not as something to avoid, but as an opportunity for their child to build emotional resilience and coping skills, similar to how physical exercise builds strength.
2. Recognize the difference between "good" and "bad" stress: Help parents understand that short-term, manageable challenges (like learning a new skill or meeting a new person) are beneficial, as opposed to chronic or overwhelming stressors that can be harmful.
3. Embrace opportunities for minor setbacks: Advise parents to view small disappointments or failures (like not winning a game or making a mistake) as valuable learning experiences that teach children how to recover and adapt.