When we decide to become parents, we face one of the most important experiences of our lives. But along with it comes countless insecurities, frustrations, and doubts that arise along the path we travel with our children. How many times have we wished that at birth they came with an instruction book to help us interpret their needs and thus be able to accompany them in their physical, emotional, and psychological development? When our children have any physical ailment, we don't hesitate for a moment to go to their pediatrician for help with the discomfort. However, we have many doubts when the ailment is emotional or psychological. At that moment, we are not sure whether we need the help of a psychologist.
Every child is unique, with their own personality, emotions, tastes and hobbies—in short, their own particular way of relating to the world—and parents are the people who know them best.
Children's developmental stages are complex. Depending on the stage, their way of expressing emotions and experiencing discomfort will vary. Therefore, it's important for parents to be alert to certain signs that indicate they need guidance to navigate this stage.
Signs that would indicate that we need to go to a child psychologist:
- If we see our child sad, nervous, apathetic, or displaying disruptive behavior that is causing difficulties in leisure time, with family, or at school.
- In the face of a significant change in emotions or behavior, for example: we notice that they are anxious, irritable, restless, sad... And it is difficult for us to determine the cause of that change.
- Difficulty adjusting to a new situation, a change in school, or even a new teacher or group of friends. This could be the arrival of a sibling, the separation of parents, or the death of a family member. Any change in a child's life that they may struggle to adapt to.
- School performance may decline, and we may notice that he or she is more distracted when carrying out activities or responsibilities at home.
- Changes in our children's sleep or eating habits.
- Difficulty tolerating frustration, such as losing a game or turning off the TV or console when asked by our parents.
These signs are some of the ones that would indicate that we should go to a child psychologist to help us deal with this situation.
I hope this article helps you on this important journey of parenthood. If you've seen any of the signs mentioned above reflected in your own life, please call us and we'll talk about it.
Susana Tarí. Child psychologist
