Do not speak about the anxiety in front of your children. Hearing about their own problems can often cause more anxiety and result in seeing their problems as larger than they are.
Do not introduce your own worries.Parents should try to remove any unnecessary pressure from their children, as they need to be protected from stress regardless of how the parents feel.
Reassure your child. A child should be told that his fears will not always be with him and that he will eventually feel better once he gets over the part he dreads.
Listen to your child’s anxieties. Allow your child to express his fears even if they seem silly to you. This does not mean that you have to “give in” to his every whim; rather, you are proving to your child that you are aware of his suffering.
Create a gentle start to the day. If your child struggles with going to school, wake him early in a gentle manner (with music or cuddles) to allow him some time to adjust to the reality of going to school.
Stick to regular routines. Even though the summer has its own schedules, sticking to the same bedtime and morning wake-up routine throughout the summer and school year will allow your child to better adjust.
Seek a professional opinion. Anxiety is a serious issue that cannot always be solved by a caring and capable parent. If you feel that your child’s anxiety is affecting you and your family, seek a professional opinion.
