Mom's Shocking Lunch Request Sparks Family Drama: Why One Son Is Suddenly the Outcast at the Table

“Practice saying, ‘This feels like too much for me right now’”

If children or teenagers find themselves in a situation where they feel overwhelmed with the responsibilities parents are assigning them, Brown encourages them to try a few simple strategies:

Practice saying, “This feels like too much for me right now.”
Write a letter or journal if talking feels intimidating.
Talk to a trusted teacher, coach, or counselor if they feel stuck.

In order to speak up, children need a safe way to do that, which starts with the adults creating an emotionally supportive environment, notes Brown. “As parents, we often forget that our teens may not know how to advocate for themselves yet. They need modeling, encouragement, and a soft landing when they do speak up.”

What can help parents to notice their children might be taking on too much are the following signs, as suggested by Brown.

They’re anxious, irritable, or emotionally withdrawn.
They act like “the little adult” in the home.
They seem guilty for relaxing or having fun.
They struggle in school or pull away from friendships.

To avoid overburdening their children with responsibilities, parents should regularly check in with their child, says Brown. “Not just on what they’re doing, but on how they’re feeling. Acknowledge their help with gratitude, not guilt. And most importantly, remind them often, “Your job is to be a kid,” Brown advises.