When your child is in the middle of a very anxious moment, they may be frightened, agitated or worried. The important thing to do in the moment is to help them calm down and feel safe.
- Breathe slowly and deeply together- you can count to five as you breathe in and five as you breathe out.
- Sit with them and offer calm reassurance- feeling you nearby and holding their hand can be soothing.
- Reassure them that the anxiety will pass and they will be okay.
- Ask them to think of a safe relaxing place or person- it could be their bedroom or a favourite place in nature it can relax them.
- Encourage them to do something that helps them feel calmer- this could be running, walking, listening to music or watching their favourite film.
These tips were kindly provided by Young Minds. For more information about this topic visit: https://www.youngminds.org.uk/
