🌟Helping Young Children with Anxiety
- Elmien Britz
- Apr 7
- 2 min read
Supporting a child with anxiety can feel overwhelming, but with patience and the right strategies, children can learn to manage their feelings and build confidence. Below are compassionate and effective methods to guide children through their anxious moments.
🧡 Emotional Acknowledgment and Validation is one way of helping young children deal with anxiety
Acknowledge Their Emotions 🗣️
Why: Validating feelings helps children feel seen and supported.
How: Use phrases like, “It’s okay to feel scared sometimes.” Show empathy.
Teach Positive Self-Talk 🧩
Why: Reframing anxious thoughts fosters confidence.
How: Encourage affirmations like, “I am brave,” or “I can do this!”
Use Stories and Books About Anxiety 📚
Why: Stories help children understand and express feelings.
How: Read books like “Wemberly Worried” or “When My Worries Get Too Big.”
🛠️ Empowerment and Skill-Building adds to children's toolbox to deal with anxiety
Introduce Simple Breathing Techniques 🎈
Why: Breathing exercises soothe the nervous system.
How: Try "balloon breathing" — inhale to inflate an imaginary balloon, exhale to deflate.
Offer Choices to Enhance Control 🎨
Why: Choices reduce feelings of helplessness.
How: Simple options like, “Would you like the blue or red cup?” empower children.
Gradually Expose Them to Anxiety Triggers 🚪
Why: Step-by-step exposure reduces fear over time.
How: Start small — if afraid of the dark, turn lights off for just a moment, and build gradually.
Use Play to Address Fears 🧸
Why: Play helps children process emotions safely.
How: Role-play scenarios (e.g., visiting the doctor) to make fears more manageable.
Encourage Physical Activity 🤸
Why: Movement releases calming endorphins.
How: Encourage running, dancing, or even kids' yoga for relaxation.
🏡 Creating a Supportive Environment
Establish a Predictable Routine 🕰️
Why: Predictability provides a sense of security.
How: Use visual schedules with pictures for daily activities.
Provide a Comfort Object 🧸
Why: Familiar items offer reassurance.
How: Let the child carry a favorite toy or blanket into new situations.
Create a Calm-Down Space 🛋️
Why: A safe retreat helps children self-soothe.
How: Set up a cozy spot with pillows, soft toys, or sensory items.
Minimize Overstimulation 🌙
Why: Calmer environments reduce anxiety.
How: Lower noise levels, use soft lighting, and offer quiet activities like drawing or reading.
🌈 Caregiver Self-Awareness and Patience is essential in helping young children overcome anxiety
💡 Final Note:
Every child is unique, and to help young children with anxiety is a unique process of discovery. While these strategies build resilience and coping skills, don’t hesitate to seek support from professionals if anxiety persists or interferes with daily life. 🌱
