When people are anxious or afraid, they act in ways that are unpredictable. Children especially tend to act out their fears and insecurities because they are not emotionally mature enough to make sense of, or handle their anxieties in the same way as adults. Kids act out feelings in the same way as actors play a role in movies, but they act them out through behaviours instead of dialogue, because they can’t hold their emotions in.
Some children show hostility or aggression, because they can’t handle the often severe agitation that anxiety triggers. Some become more depressed and others exhibit more attention-seeking behaviour.
Parents can often read their child’s behaviour and look for clues as to what the problem might be, so they can provide a solution. At the same time, children need to be taught the skills to identify, articulate and manage personal and social situations that make them anxious or afraid. If your child demonstrates behaviours that you think are triggered by anxiety, it is important to try to teach them the skills they need to manage it in a healthy way instead of acting it out behaviourally, hiding from the problem, or avoiding the emotions that come with anxiety.
So how do you help your child overcome anxiety? Here are some strategies for parents to try:
Role play with younger kids
This story is from the June/July 2021 edition of Mother, Baby & Child.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June/July 2021 edition of Mother, Baby & Child.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
BREAST CANCERAWARENESS: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
We discuss the signs, risks and treatments available.
A PERFECT SPA RETREAT IN FUJAIRAH
Naäma Beach Villas and Spa is located in Fujairah, and is one of the best spa experiences in the country!
THREE FANTASTIC HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS IN BAHRAIN
We look at the new hotels on our radar in Bahrain for families in search of something different for their next trip.
BEAUTY UNBOUND RETURNS TO NAKHEEL MALL
The festival promises to bring all things beauty to the city this month!
CREATING A HEALTHIER BEDROOM FOR LITTLE ONES
How can you make sure your child's bedroom is a toxin-free space?
FIVE PIECES THAT ELEVATE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE
Here are some highlights from The Loom Collection's latest range of outdoor furniture and accessories, so your family can make the most of your outside space this season.
A FAMILY GETAWAY OFFERAT RAFFLES LONDON
The beautiful London address has a brand new offer for all families looking to visit the iconic city between now and March 2025.
THE POWER OF SAYING "I NOTICE..."
Here's why the words \"I notice...\" can be a game-changer for navigating tricky parenting situations!
HOW ZINC KEEPS KIDS HEALTHY
Zinc is a hugely important mineral that influences our wellbeing in many ways.
BUILDING CONFIDENCE IN SHY KIDS
We dive into some easy-to-implement ways to grow your introverted child's confidence in social situations they may currently find challenging.