Top Five Techniques to Help Children Manage Anxiety

Anxiety can be a common experience for children, often showing up as worries, reluctance to engage, or difficulty in social settings. While some anxiety is natural, knowing how to manage it is key to helping children feel safe and secure. Teaching children practical techniques for managing anxiety empowers them with lifelong coping skills.

Understanding Childhood Anxiety

Children experience anxiety in various ways, from fears of the dark or separation anxiety to worries about school or social interactions. Left unaddressed, anxiety can impact a child’s sense of security, relationships, and even academic performance. Recognising signs of anxiety and providing supportive techniques can help children develop a sense of control over their feelings.

Five Practical Techniques for Anxiety Management

1. Breathing Exercises for Calmness
   Deep breathing is a simple yet powerful way to reduce anxiety. Teach children to take slow, deep breaths by “breathing in like they’re smelling flowers and breathing out like they’re blowing out birthday candles.” This helps activate their relaxation response.

2. Mindfulness Practices for Focus
   Mindfulness activities help children stay present rather than worry about the future. Simple activities like paying attention to sounds around them or focusing on how their body feels can be grounding.

3. Creating a “Worry Box”
   Encourage children to write down their worries and place them in a “worry box.” This visual activity gives children a sense of control over their worries and helps them release anxious thoughts.

4. Positive Self-Talk
   Help children replace negative thoughts with affirmations like, “I am brave,” or, “I can do hard things.” Repeating positive statements builds confidence and reduces self-doubt.

5. Visualisation Exercises
   Teach children to imagine themselves in a safe or happy place, or to picture themselves succeeding in a situation that causes anxiety. This helps them build confidence and approach situations with a more positive outlook.

How Brave Beginnings Can Help

Our Worry Wise Workbook includes structured exercises and activities designed specifically for children struggling with anxiety. It offers practical techniques and exercises that help children understand and manage their worries in a supportive, hands-on way.

Conclusion

With these simple techniques, children can begin to take charge of their anxiety and develop skills that will support their mental well-being throughout life. Providing them with supportive tools, encouragement, and resources like the Worry Wise Workbook can make a significant difference in their journey.

Help your child manage anxiety with our Worry Wise Workbook and other Brave Beginnings resources, crafted to give children practical tools and confidence in navigating their feelings.