Road sign with 'Problem' pointing left and 'Solution' pointing right

I think it is always best that when you have a problem to talk about it. There is no point festering over something you are unhappy about when you could make a small change to the way you think, or do so that the problem goes away or becomes more manageable. If you shove the problem under the carpet and don’t address it, the issue can grow and make you feel worse.

Some children are happy to talk about their problems, and some aren’t. But, as parents, we should encourage them to talk about what’s on their mind so they feel lighter and their worries decrease or disappear. It is not always easy to spot that your child has a problem, but there are some telltale signs that parents can look out for so you can open up the dialogue and help them.

6 Signs for Parents to Look Out For

  1. Children will tell lies and say life is good or okay for them, despite their faces not reflecting what they are saying.
  2. They may appear unhappy or withdrawn and not want to talk.
  3. Your child may reject the idea of you making playdates for them or want to join in with activities with friends.
  4. Their behaviour may get more aggressive, or they may become angry at little things that did not bother them so much before.
  5. They may have mood swings, headaches, or find it difficult to sleep.
  6. They may start to eat less or seem tired even though they have had lots of sleep.

As a parent, you know your child and what they are usually like. If their behaviour changes from their norm, then it is worth investigating what is going on for them and trying to find out what their problem is. Once you know what the problem is, you can listen and look at solutions together and put in some nice strategies they could use to make life a little bit easier for them.

[Published Feb 2023 | Updated Apr 2026]

The-Parents-Toolkit by the Kids Coach, Naomi RichardsGet More Help With Dealing With Problems

To read more about problem-solving around issues children have and for suggestions of solutions, take a look at my book, The Parent’s Toolkit.

Alternatively, if talking to your child is proving difficult, or they need some extra support to deal with the problems facing them, call me to see how I (as a life coach for children) can help your child with problem-solving, on 07961 312749.