Watch CBS News

How to Ease Your Child's Anxieties

If you're a parent, you want your kids to have a worry-free childhood because you know there will be plenty of time for that when they reach adulthood.

For those times when we can't stop it, we need to help children manage it.

One way is to help them understand why they're anxious - possibly about going to the doctor or making a presentation in school - than encourage them to feel they can face their fears.

Don't belittle a fear.

You want to listen and validate it but it doesn't mean you agree with the fear. Express positive but realistic expectations. You can't promise them that their fear is unrealistic – that they can't fail a test – but you can show them you are confident that they will be okay and that over time as they face the fear, the anxiety level will drop.

Also, be a role model. Let them see you and hear you manage anxiety in a calm, healthy manner.

For more tips visit: www.childmind.org

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.