Anxious Child: Tips for Parents
It is perfectly normal for children to experience anxiety and worry in stressful situations. In most cases, these feelings fade once a child becomes more familiar with a new situation or expectation. Parents and caring adults can help children learn to manage their worries and tackle everyday problems with ease. The following are tips may help you navigate the world of worry with your child:
- Simply ask, "What are you thinking about?" - Finding out what a child has on their mind is a great window into what is causing your child increased stress. For younger children, encourage them to draw a picture of their worry or the act out their concerns with dolls/action figures. Often just talking about the worry out loud makes it seems much more manageable.
- Talk about Big vs Little problems - Sometimes every problem seems HUGE when you are young. Helping your child gain perspective on how today's worry may or most likely may not impact them tomorrow can be powerful.
- Lead by Example - Children are natural sponges and will soak up whatever worries are floating around the house. Set a good example by letting children see you successfully manage your own worries. Show them how you problem solve to alleviate stress, respond with optimism when you have a set back, and let them see your "never give up" attitude.
- Cease the Opportunity - Encourage and praise your little worrier every time he or she stretches themselves beyond their comfort zone. Building a child's self confidence and sense of self worth can help your child feel empowered to tackle their fears.
- Be a Problem Solver - When your child shares a worry with you, resist the urge to just "fix it". Instead, problem solve with your child to come up with strategies to handle their fear. For example, if your child is worried about making friends at school, brainstorm a couple of fun conversations starters to help her feel confident approaching peers.
- Ask for Help - If your child's anxiety becomes so severe and pervasive to interfere with everyday life, it may be time to ask a professional for help. Your child's doctor is an excellent resource or you can call me, Melissa Hart at Westfield for area mental health providers.