Childhood anxiety is becoming increasingly common among youth. In fact, there are now approximately 4.4 million children ranging from ages 3-17 who have been diagnosed with anxiety. This number is only for those who have been formally diagnosed and does not include children who experience anxiety periodically or who have not been diagnosed. Because childhood anxiety is becoming more prevalent, parents may be wondering how to support their child(ren) best when anxiety strikes.

Suggestions to help your student:

Do not dismiss their feelings. Help them understand that it is okay to feel the way they are. Validate their feelings and permit them to talk through them.
Help your child focus on what they can control. One example - if your student is worried about an upcoming test, remind them that they can’t control which questions are on the test but can control how they prepare.
Create a worry jar. Children can write down their worries on a piece of paper when they come up. Place the concerns in a container and set a time of the day or week to go through them together. This provides a safe place for your child to work through their worries and see that you will process their feelings.

Things to consider saying:

I am here for you.
Let’s work through this together.
How can I help you?
I know this is hard.
You are safe. I am here.

Things not to say/do:

Stop worrying. It is almost impossible for our students to stop worrying. There is not a switch that can be turned off and on.
This isn’t a big deal.
It’s fine.

Coping strategies:

Deep breathing
Establishing a practice of gratitude (keeping a gratitude journal, sharing what you’re thankful for)
Talking to an adult
Drawing
Exercise
Focusing on what they can control

Remember, worry and anxiety are normal feelings. However, if your child seems to be worrying constantly and/or if it is affecting their functioning, it may be helpful to consider outside help. Please reach out to Mrs. Boyes for additional support.