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17 Phrases to Calm an Anxious Child: How to Help Kids With Anxiety

Anxiety can be a formidable challenge for children, manifesting in various forms—from worries about school performance to apprehension about social interactions or changes in routine. As guardians, teachers, or caregivers, it’s crucial to equip ourselves with effective ways to comfort and reassure anxious children. One of the most powerful tools at our disposal is our language. The right words can foster a sense of safety and understanding. Here, we explore 17 phrases designed to help calm an anxious child, along with insights on how to use them effectively.

1. “I’m Here for You”

Let your child know that they are not alone in their feelings. This phrase reassures them that you are a reliable support system during challenging moments.

2. “It’s Okay to Feel This Way”

Normalising their feelings can help reduce the stigma surrounding anxiety. Validating their emotions allows them to open up about what they’re experiencing.

3. “Let’s Take Deep Breaths Together”

Introduce a simple breathing exercise. Breathing deeply not only calms the nervous system but also engages you both in a shared activity that can distract from anxiety.

4. “You Are Safe Right Now”

Reinforcing the idea of safety can help ground a child in the present moment. This can be especially powerful during times of acute anxiety.

5. “I Understand That This Is Hard for You”

Empathy is key. Acknowledge the difficulty they are facing rather than minimising their experience. This fosters trust and encourages open communication.

6. “We Can Work Through This Together”

Banish feelings of isolation by emphasising teamwork. This phrase suggests you’ll face their challenges side-by-side, providing a sense of companionship.

7. “What Do You Need Right Now?”

Encourage them to express their immediate needs. This empowers the child and allows you to provide specific comfort, whether it’s a hug, a break, or a chat.

8. “Let’s Think About What’s Good”

Shifting focus from anxiety to positive aspects of their life can help reframe their thoughts. You might discuss things they love or enjoy together.

9. “It’s Alright to Ask for Help”

Reassuring children that seeking assistance is a strength, not a weakness, encourages them to reach out in the future if anxiety revisits.

10. “You’re Not Alone; Many People Feel Anxious”

Sharing that others experience similar feelings can help reduce the burden of anxiety. It can also promote a sense of community and understanding.

11. “Let’s Take a Break”

Sometimes, all a child needs is a moment away from a stressor. Suggest a short break to engage in a calming activity like reading or drawing.

12. “What Can We Do to Make This Easier?”

Collaborating on coping strategies fosters problem-solving skills and allows kids to have a say in managing their feelings of anxiety.

13. “You Are Stronger Than You Think”

Remind your child of their resilience. Highlight past moments where they successfully managed their fears to build confidence in their ability to cope.

14. “It’s Okay to Try Again”

Reinforcing the idea that failure is a natural part of learning helps diminish the fear of making mistakes. Encourage persistence rather than perfection.

15. “Let’s Create a ‘Worry Box’ Together”

This is a fun, creative approach where children can write down their worries and ‘store’ them away temporarily, making them feel more manageable.

16. “I’m Proud of You for Sharing Your Feelings”

Praise them for being open about their feelings. This encourages future communication and reassures them that their feelings are valued.

17. “What Would You Like to Do Next?”

Empower your child to make decisions about how they wish to handle their anxiety. Choice helps create a sense of control, which can be comforting.

Conclusion

Helping a child navigate anxiety requires patience, empathy, and understanding. The language we use is a vital component of this support. By incorporating these phrases into your interactions, you can create an environment where children feel safe, understood, and empowered to address their worries. Remember, while words hold significant power, fostering open communication is equally important. Encourage your child to express their feelings, making it clear that it’s perfectly okay to seek comfort and support when needed. Together, we can help children build resilience and cultivate a positive mindset in the face of anxiety.

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