Recognize Stress (E2.1.13)
Sub Category: Relationships with Individual Children: Security, Warmth, and Responsiveness
Credential Level: Level 1 •
Age Group: Infant, Toddler, Pre-K
COMPETENCY STATEMENT
Recognizes signs of stress in individual children and responds sensitively
DEFINITIONS
Teachers observe and notice behaviors and identify emotional cues and needs of children. The teacher can offer comfort by listening attentively and using positive coping strategies -- this can help support children's regulation when they experience a stressful event.
EXAMPLES
Recognize Stress
Age Group: Pre-K
Age Group: Pre-K
In this video the teacher listens to children as they attempt to communicate what they are feeling and he responds with positive statements and tone.
Recognize Stress
Age Group: Infant
Age Group: Infant
In this exemplar video, a teacher is sitting on the floor next to an infant that is showing signs of stress. Notice how the teacher recognizes the child in distress and reacts by using a warm tone and reassuring touches –examples of recognizing signs of stress in individual children and responding sensitively.
Recognize Stress
Age Group: Infant
Age Group: Infant
In this video, the teacher praises and talks to the child about the bottle the infant is holding. Notice how the teacher provides comfort and shows a gentle interaction once the child becomes fussy–an example of recognizing signs of stress in individual children and responding sensitively.
Recognize Stress
Age Group: Pre-K
Age Group: Pre-K
In this video, the teacher comforts a child who is missing her mother by inviting her to sit on her lap. Notice how she gently reassures the child and talks about the fun activities they’ll enjoy together during the day, helping the child feel safe and supported– an example of recognizing signs of stress in individual children and responds sensitively.
Recognize Stress
Age Group: Toddler
Age Group: Toddler
In this exemplar video, a teacher comforts a child who is visibly upset about missing her mommy. Notice how the teacher recognizes the child’s distress and responds with calm, sensitive support—an example of using emotional awareness to guide children back into play and connection.
Recognize Stress
Age Group: Infant
Age Group: Infant
In this exemplar video, a teacher responds sensitively to a child who is upset. Notice how the teacher recognizes the child’s distress and provides comfort through gentle touch, soft words, and physical reassurance. This is an example of recognizing signs of stress in an individual child and responding sensitively.
Recognize Stress
Age Group: Toddler
Age Group: Toddler
In this exemplar video, a teacher responds when a child catches their hand in a cabinet door. Notice how the teacher recognizes the child’s shock and discomfort, reassures the child by saying, “It’s OK,” and gently rubs the child’s hand to provide comfort. This is an example of recognizing signs of stress in individual children and responding sensitively.