How Can I Help My Anxious Child?
October 2022
Anxiety among children ages 6 to 17 has increased over time. When children are chronically anxious, it can affect many aspects of their lives, at school and in the community. As much as parents want to protect their children from their fears, the goal isn't to eliminate anxiety, but to help them to better manage it. Here are some helpful pointers from The Child Mind Institute and VeryWell Family:
Don't Avoid Things Just Because They Make Your Child Anxious
Helping children avoid the things they are afraid of will make them feel better in the short term, but it reinforces the anxiety over the long run.
Validate Their Feelings
When your child says they're worried about something, it can be tempting to say, "Don't worry about it, you'll be fine." Validate their feelings by saying something like, "I know you're scared, and that's okay. I'm here and I'm going to help you get through this."
Distinguish Between Real Threats and False Alarms
If it's a real threat/danger, they should listen to those alarm bells and take action to keep themselves safe. But if it's a false alarm, it's a good idea to face their fears (i.e. trying out for a school team, doing a class presentation, etc.)
Teach Deep Breathing
Studies show that slow, deep breathing can help curb symptoms of both depression and anxiety, especially if your child experiences a lot of physical symptoms (like a racing heartbeat or tight muscles). Teach them how to calm their body with some simple breathing exercises.
Model Healthy Ways of Handling Anxiety
Kids are perceptive, so letting them see how you cope with anxiety yourself is important. This helps your child develop resiliency and healthy coping strategies when faced with a fearful situation.
Seek Help if Needed
If your child's anxiety is interfering with everyday functioning for a period of time, they may need additional support. A mental health professional can help your child address avoidance behaviors and develop more helpful patterns of thinking.
6 Fun Halloween Mindfulness Exercises for Kids
https://www.mindfullittleminds.com/6-fun-halloween-mindfulness-exercises-for-kids/
Mindful Little Minds has playful and fun activities that will help your child learn about emotions and how to manage them, such as pumpkin breathing, Halloween sensory walk, spooky Halloween calm down jar, mindful coloring, mindful eating, and spider races!
October 10 is World Mental Health Day - Make mental health and well-being for all a global priority!
This newsletter is a joint collaboration of the DOE Central District's School Social Workers and Human Services Professionals. The purpose is to highlight information that you may find useful, and does not serve as a comprehensive list. We do not endorse any specific organization. Mahalo!