Though anxiety and stress are often thought to be something only adults deal with, kids can be just as affected. In fact, with the pressures of school and life changes like divorce or a family death, kids can become overwhelmed and show symptoms of anxiety, like fidgeting, nervousness, worrying, reduced appetite and depression, says MedlinePlus.
Step 1
Guide your child through meditation. Have her sit crossed-legged on the floor, with her back straight and palms resting comfortably on her knees. Instruct her to close her eyes and take slow deep breaths while clearing her mind. The point of this exercise is to just be in the moment and to be OK with being still, says the San Francisco Unified School District. You may wish to perform this exercise with her to help her concentrate.
Step 2
Participate in a fun pastime or hobby. Playing games, putting together puzzles or playing a sport are all acceptable. It's important for your child to have something fun to do besides homework and chores. This will give him something to look forward to each day and prevent him from becoming overwhelmed with anxiety, according to the National Mental Health Association.
Step 3
Use belly breathing to reduce anxiety and calm the mind, suggests the University of Maryland Medical Center. Help your child ward off an anxiety attack or feelings of being overwhelmed by taking a moment to breathe deeply into her belly. Breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth for five seconds on both the inhale and exhale. Repeat this a few times, but not so much that she'll get dizzy. Tell your child that this is a fun activity to perform whenever she's feeling stressed.
