One of a parent's biggest desires is to protect his/her child against the hurts of life: physical pain, sickness, bullies, vicious teachers, and also against anything that makes them 'different' from other children.

The truth is that a parent cannot always protect their children and yes, bad things do happen to good people. The biggest gift parents can give children is the tools to handle those challenges and to empower them to be an over comer.

Coping with the stress of parenting

Having children can be stressful, we all know that. Getting kids ready for school, getting dressed for work and dishing up a nutritious breakfast can make you stressed-out even before you arrive at work.

Don't try to be a super-parent. Just try the best you can. Trying to do everything on your own is unrealistic. Ask for help from family or friends and learn to delegate. If you are less pressurized and stressed, your relationship with your children is bound to be more fulfilling.

Encourage your child's autonomy and individuality. Set a good example so they may learn from you, but allow your child to develop his/her own way of doing things (within limits, of course!).

Children react to stress in a different way to parents. Seek help for you child if you notice any of the following:

• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns in the absence of illness
• Withdrawal and/or lack of need for social interaction
• Loss of interest in things he/she used to find enjoyable
• Excessive moodiness or irritability
• Sudden deterioration in academic or sport performance