Anxiety isn’t just an adult thing. It affects kids and teenagers too. As a grandparent, you play a big role in your grandchild’s life. So, let’s talk about how you can help them deal with anxiety.
Understanding Anxiety in Children
First off, know what anxiety looks like in kids. It’s not always easy to spot. Your grandchild might seem worried a lot, have trouble sleeping, or get upset easily.
Anxiety can also show up as anger, avoidance of activities they used to love, or even becoming overly clingy. Pay attention to changes in their behavior or mood, especially if these changes last for a while.
They might struggle with schoolwork, have trouble sleeping, or not want to meet friends. These signs can indicate that they’re dealing with more than just the usual ups and downs of childhood.
What causes this anxiety? It could be school pressure, problems with friends, or even stuff they see online.
When you spot signs of anxiety in your grandchild, here are some steps you can take to help them.
Steps to Take When Your Grandchild Shows Signs of Anxiety
The best approach to take when you spot signs of anxiety in your grandchild is to talk about it and identify the triggers. Then, teach them to manage anxiety, not to eliminate it. Help them learn to tolerate their anxiety and function despite it, which will gradually decrease their anxiety over time.
Talk About It
When talking to your grandchild about their feelings, choose a time when they’re calm and not distracted.
Use simple words and let them know that feeling anxious is something everyone experiences.
Encourage them to express their feelings and reassure them that it’s safe to share their worries with you.
Avoid dismissing their fears. Instead, validate their feelings and show understanding.
Remember, your goal is to listen and provide comfort, not to solve all their problems immediately.
Work with your grandchild to identify what triggers their anxiety. This awareness is a key step in managing their anxiety effectively.
Create a Safe Space
Create a calming atmosphere at home. Maybe it’s a cozy corner with their favorite plush toys, books or a space for drawing and writing. This can be a quiet and soothing haven for your grandchild to retreat to when feeling overwhelmed
Talk about happy and positive things, and try to steer away from stressful topics.
Keep the routines consistent. Encourage them to share their daily experiences with you, which can be a subtle way to gauge their anxiety levels.
Engage in Activities Together
Physical activities like bike rides or a simple game of catch can be great stress-busters. Spend time outdoors, like going on nature walks or visiting a park. The fresh air and change in environment can help distract from anxieties.
Creative activities like painting or gardening can also help them express themselves in non-verbal ways. Art is a great way for children to express their emotions and can have a calming effect.
Try activities that involve learning something new together. It can be a great bonding experience and a distraction from worries.
Keep the activities light and pressure-free. The goal is to have fun together.
Teach Them Calming Techniques
Teach your grandchild simple breathing exercises. These can be as straightforward as counting to ten or taking deep, slow breaths together.
Introduce them to deep breathing. Show them how to breathe in slowly through their nose, hold their breath for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through their mouth. It’s a skill they can use whenever they feel anxious.
Another simple method is to count breaths. Instruct them to inhale while counting to four, hold their breath while counting to four, and then exhale while counting to four. This counting helps focus their mind and control their breathing rhythm, offering immediate relief from anxiety symptoms.
The idea is to teach them to manage anxiety, not to eliminate it. You cannot create an environment where the child never feels anxious. This is unrealistic.
What you can do is equip the child with the tools and skills to handle their anxiety effectively.
Educate Yourself
Stay updated on the challenges that kids face today. Knowing about online trends, social media pressures, and academic expectations can help you better relate to their world.
There are many parenting forums and websites where you can learn about childhood anxiety.
Read articles or books written by child psychologists for deeper insights. Attending local workshops or talks on child mental health can also be beneficial.
Professional Help
Knowing when to seek professional help is crucial. If you notice persistent changes in their behavior, a drop in school performance, or a significant shift in their mood, it’s time to consider external help.
Discuss your observations with their parents first and express your concerns. Look for child psychologists or counselors who specialize in anxiety disorders.
Remember, involving a professional is a sign of strength and proactive care, not a failure.
By keeping things simple and being there for your grandchild, you can help them navigate through tough times. Remember, you’re not alone in this – there’s help and support out there for both of you.
Further Reading and Resources:
- Supporting your child with anxiety, Young Minds.
- What to Do (and Not Do) When Children Are Anxious, Child Mind Institute.
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