- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- preschoolers today articles
- preschoolers today q&a
- children today articles
- children today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Too Tense
7 Things Parents Can Do to Help an Anxious Child
By Dr. Paul Foxman
Anxiety is the most common emotional disorder in the United States, and the seeds are sown in childhood. Ten to 15 percent of American children meet the diagnostic criteria for an anxiety disorder. Anxiety can cause sleep disturbance, nausea, digestive problems and other ailments. Countless other children face general anxiety over school pressures, divorce, terrorism and war and similar influences.
Dr. Paul Foxman, of the Center for Anxiety Disorders, has outlined the personality profile of anxious children in his new book, The Worried Child: Recognizing Anxiety in Children and Helping Them Heal (Hunter House, January 2004). He offers concrete strategies and advice for parents and all adults who work with and care for children.
1. Strengthen self-esteem. Teach your child the skill of positive self-talk. Point out that criticism should be taken as feedback for improvement, not judgment.
2. Reign in perfectionism. Distinguish between perfection and "excellence" – doing one's best within reasonable time limits and current resources. Help your child break down tasks into steps, focus on the big picture and view "mistakes" as learning opportunities.