It’s not a secret, but the mom group that I am part of basically is.  I am a mom with a child who suffers from severe anxiety and OCD. No one really talks about it and to be honest, as a mom, there are times when I am just too exhausted to even want to.  I am always open to discussions though because that is how I learn how to be a better mom for my kid.  I am also always looking for tips and tools, and thanks to a preschool in Rochester, I found some great tips!

As a mom with a child who suffers from anxiety, I have days that are frustrating and when I just want to throw my arms up in the air because I honestly don't know what to do or say next.  What words or actions are going to set his triggers off more?  I don't always know and at times it feels like life is a guessing game. Some days, it is only 10 am and I have been asked the same question 10 trillion times because that is the question that is on repeat in my kiddos head.

I am always looking for resources to help on the days that are tough...to help build up that toolbox for all this #momlife stuff.  A local preschool in Rochester, Aldrich School, posted these great tips on their Facebook page about what to say to your anxious child.  It looks like it came from another page called Let's Talk Mental Health Now.  I am tucking these away for that next challenging day but thought another mom who is struggling might appreciate these too.

9 Things To Say To Your Anxious Child

  1. I’m here with you.  You’re safe.
  2. Do you want to do some dancing or running to get rid of the worried energy?
  3. Tell me about it.
  4. What would you like to say to your worry?  What might your worry say back? Then what?
  5. Let’s draw it.
  6. What does it feel like in your body?  Where is the worry? How big is it?
  7. Match your breaths to mine.
  8. Let’s think up some endings for what could happen (anxious ones, goofy ones, AND realistic ones.)
  9. What’s something we could do to help you feel better?

What tips do you have for parenting kids with anxiety?  I’d love to hear them! Send me a message on my Facebook page (Jessica On The Radio) or DM me on Instagram.  

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