How To Calm An Anxious Child

Children can become anxious about a wide variety of things. They can have the typical childhood fears, like being afraid of ghosts or monsters, or they can worry about concrete things like a bully at school. Be alert for signs of anxiety so you can calm your child down and help him come up with solutions. No matter what he is worried about, there are ways to help him relax and deal with the situation in a healthy, productive way.

Instructions

    • 1

      Find out why the child is anxious. Super Nanny Jo Frost, a professional nanny with over 20 years of experience who has written three parenting books and stars in a reality show, says you should help the child express her feelings. If she doesn't know the proper words, ask her questions to clarify the situation. For example, ask, "Are you upset about something? Afraid of something? What is scaring you?" Carol Brady, Ph.D., of ADDitude magazine says to make sure you understand the child's fear. Repeat it to her to make sure you have it correct.

    • 2

      Guide the child through deep breathing exercises to help him calm down and release the anxiety before you discuss the situation further. According to Super Nanny, even young children can learn basic breathing techniques. The Raising Children Network recommends having the child close his eyes and concentrate on his breathing. Have him inhale deeply through his nose and exhale through his mouth. Tell him to imagine he is filling his stomach with air with each breath, and have him quietly repeat "I'm okay, I'm relaxing" as he does it. Have him repeat this at least ten times.

    • 3

      Discuss the validity of the fear or concern that is causing anxiety. Some fears, such as worrying about a monster under the bed, don't have much of a basis in reality. Others are more real and serious, like the fear of starting classes at a new school or of a bully who has been bothering the child.

    • 4

      Devise a plan to fight the fear. For unrealistic fears you can come up with a ritual. For example, if the child is afraid of monsters, come up with an "anti-monster chant" she can use before getting into bed and if she is afraid overnight. For real anxiety-producing situations, help her come up an action plan. For example, if she is worried about a new school, practice ways to start conversations with other children.

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