What to Do When Your Child Has Anxiety
By Virginia Laird
It is no surprise that children struggle with anxiety. For many it relates to school, while others admit to these feelings about home. While there is little you can do to completely avoid these feelings, there is a lot you can do to help your child manage it. A few tips offered by the experts include:
- Make sleep a priority
- Plan well-balanced meals
- Encourage exercise each day
- Make time to listen to your child
Make Sleep a Priority
Not only is anxiety an issue, but when compounded with a lack of sleep, it can be too much for anyone to handle. It is with this in mind that experts suggest that parents help their children, who are struggling with anxiety, get the sleep they need. According to research, children need anywhere from eight to 12 hours of sleep each night. Still, this can be easier said than done. For many, a strict bedtime is necessary to get the sleep needed. Figure out what time your young ones need to hit the pillow to get the sleep needed and make that bedtime happen right away to help manage anxiety.
Plan Well-Balanced Meals
Making well-balanced meals a part of your daily routine can help eliminate stress from the beginning of the day. There are many children who find feelings of hunger to incite anxiety. Make tomorrow the morning you begin planning and preparing a well-balanced breakfast for everyone in your home.
Encourage Exercise Each Day
There is a link between stress release and exercise. Many health and wellness experts suggest that as little as 30 minutes of exercise each day can help reduce and manage anxiety. For this reason, it is necessary to begin adding this to your day. Exercising can include biking, jogging, swimming, and playing sports. Make sure to encourage your child to get exercise each day, starting now.
Make Time to Listen to Your Child
While it may seem a little too simple, there is research to suggest that making time to listen to your child can help manage emotions, including anxiety. During this chat time, make sure you are distraction-free. Be an active participant in their conversation. Experts suggest avoiding confrontation and telling the child how wrong (or silly) they sound. In contrast, support their ideas and offer suggestions to help them overcome issues of anxiety. Find the time now to listen to your child.
Now is the time to start taking your child's anxiety seriously and help them learn to manage it.
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