Anxiety is a feeling of apprehension that strikes both kids and adults, according to the Kids Health website. Anxiety results from a threat that feels real to the child, even if it isn't. The causes of anxiety for children vary, but many of the symptoms are the same. Your child may exhibit clingy behavior, impulsiveness, nervous movements, sweaty hands, increased heart rate, increased breathing rate, nausea, headaches or stomachaches. Helping your child work through the anxiety helps him overcome the fears and learn to handle them on his own.
Acknowledge Anxiety
Anxiety is a real fear for the child, regardless of whether or not there is a real threat. Acknowledge the anxiety and take it seriously. Belittling your child or punishing her for her reactions to the anxiety do nothing to solve the fear. This type of response may hurt your child's self-esteem and make her afraid to come to you for help in the future. Talking about the anxiety helps your child work through it and gives her some power over the situation, according to the Kids Health website.
Confront Fears Together
Avoiding the situation that causes anxiety doesn't help your child deal with the feelings. Help your child confront his fears and anxiety in a safe environment. If your child is afraid of the dark, start with a dark room in your home. Give him a flashlight and allow him to explore the dark room with you by his side. If your child has test anxiety, teach him effective methods to study so he feels more confident about the test. Supporting him as he confronts the source of his anxiety shows him that you take his concerns seriously and that you will be there for him.
Relaxation Techniques
Various relaxation techniques help a child calm down when anxiety sets in. Helping her identify the onset of anxiety by pointing out the typical anxiety signs helps her learn when to start using the relaxation techniques. Visualizing a calm setting such as a beach or floating on a cloud can help your child reduce her anxiety, according to the Kids Health website. Breathing deeply while counting is another coping strategy that kids can easily use when they feel anxiety starting.
Model Calm Behavior
Modeling calm behavior yourself sets a good example for your child. Stay calm when he exhibits signs of anxiety rather than reacting negatively or punishing him for his reactions. When you face your own anxiety-inducing situations, implement the techniques you teach him such as deep breathing and visualization. Kids learn from what they see, making your calm behavior a powerful teaching tool.
