How To Help Kids With Anxiety

Why Kids Feel Worried

Kids have worry feelings for many reasons. Maybe they are starting a new school, or they have a big test coming up. Sometimes, they might worry about family stuff, like if parents argue. These worries can make them feel scared or sad.

Signs of Big Worry Feelings

Kids show their worry feelings in different ways:

• Tummy Troubles: They might say their stomach hurts when there’s nothing wrong with it.
• Sleep Problems: They might find it hard to sleep or have scary dreams.
• Not Wanting to Do Fun Stuff: They might not want to play or hang out with friends.
• Feeling Grumpy or Crying a Lot: Sometimes they might get upset really easily or cry over small things.

Talking About Worries

One of the best ways to help with worry feelings is to talk about them. Kids can talk to someone they trust, like their parents, a teacher, or a friend. When kids talk about what’s bothering them, the grown-ups should listen carefully and show they understand.

Easy Calming Tricks

There are some simple things kids can do to feel less worried:

• Breathing Like a Dragon: Taking deep breaths in and out can calm the mind.
• Being a Happy Thought Detective: Thinking about happy things like a fun day or a favorite game can push away sad thoughts.
• Moving and Grooving: Exercise or playing outside can make kids feel better.

When Worries Are Too Big

If worry feelings don’t go away and make everyday things hard, like going to school or playing, it might be time to talk to a special doctor called a therapist. They’re like worry detectives who can find out why the worries are there and how to make them smaller.

How Grown-Ups Can Be Superheroes

Parents and teachers have superpowers to help kids with worry feelings. They can:

• Create a Safe and Regular Routine: Having a set time for meals, homework, and bedtime makes the world feel more predictable and less scary.
• Encourage Little Brave Steps: Helping kids face small worries bit by bit, like trying a new food or saying hi to a new friend, can make them feel brave.
• Show How to Solve Problems: Teaching kids ways to figure out problems on their own makes them feel strong and smart.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Schools and communities have teams to help kids with worries. Talking to a school counselor can be a good start. Joining clubs, sports teams, or art classes can also help kids feel part of a group and less alone with their worries.

It’s Okay to Have Worry Feelings

Every kid feels worried sometimes, and that’s okay. What’s important is talking about these feelings and getting help if the worries are too big. With the right help, kids can learn to make their worry backpacks a lot lighter. Hopefully, this has helped you with how to help kids with anxiety .

To find out more about anxiety and children please see: Anxiety and Depression in Children