There are few things more challenging than trying to help a child who is upset and anxious. Whether they’ve experienced trauma, are grieving the loss of a loved one, or struggle to navigate conflict, there’s no one set way of calming them. After all, each child is different, and how they respond to different situations will change depending on any number of factors.
That’s why this advice from Special Mom Advocate is so useful. In the infographic below, they provide us with 10 different strategies to calm a child who is heightened or anxious. We use many of these in our own practice, and find that by customising each strategy to the child involved we can equip them (and their parents) to self soothe in the future.
If the child you are supporting is high energy, take a look at Tip 4: 30 x Jumping jacks. If they struggle to express emotion, you might try Tip 6: Draw your anxiety. And if they are struggling to regulate their breathing or are having a panic attack, try Tip 5: Blowing Bubbles. If you don’t have access to bubble making mixture, we’ve also found breathing into a paper bag, or into balloons has a similar affect.
What strategies have helped you calm kids struggling with anxiety? Let us know below!
Are you a parent or primary care giver to a child? Do you want to better support your child when they experience anxiety ? Call Colleen on 0434 337 245 or Duncan on 0434 331 243 for a FREE 10 minute consultation. To make an appointment, go to BOOK NOW.
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