Anxieties

Anxieties and fears help us detect threats and stay safe

Sometimes anxieties get out of control

Parents can help prevent anxieties from becoming a problem

Great Options
Set rules or goals - âYou have to go to school on time every day even if you are feeling nervous.â
Redirect or restructure - You can redirect using deep breathing or grounding. Help your child restructure their thoughts. For monsters, you might say, âTell your brain, âThank you for making me think about something that might be dangerous. There are dangers in this world, but this is not one of them. I am safe and do not have to worry about any monsters.ââ
Teach why - âWhen you avoid things that make you nervous, you donât learn what you can doâ
Play, exercise, activities - Taking time to play can help children master fears.
Role play - Practice responding to feared situations, building your childâs confidence.
Later, give praise - âYou did a great job talking to our new neighborâ
Limit media time - others may appear to be doing better
Change your daily schedule â put your cell phone and computer away

Not Recommended
Coming to the rescue - Do not rescue your child or let them avoid the situations that make them nervous
Yelling
Punishment
Advise
If these strategies do not work, consider getting an assessment by a mental health provider
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