Anxiety is something many kids experience, and as a parent, it’s hard not to feel sure about how to help. But here’s the good news: your support makes a powerful difference. Here are real-life strategies that can help your child feel seen, safe, and supported.
Start With Empathy
Instead of trying to “fix” the fear right away, focus on connection first. Children need to feel heard before they can feel calm. → Try this:
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“I can see you’re feeling really nervous. That’s okay.”
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“It’s hard to feel scared. I’m right here with you.”
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“Want to sit with me and take a few breaths together?”
Teach Calming Tools
Help your child build a toolbox of coping skills they can turn to when anxiety shows up. → Try this:
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Practice belly breathing: “Smell the flower, blow out the candle.”
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Use a grounding technique: “Name 3 things you can see, 2 things you hear, and 1 thing you feel.”
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Create a calming corner or fidget box they can go to when overwhelmed.
Focus on the Present
Anxiety often lives in the what-ifs of the future. Gently guide your child back to what’s true right now. → Try this:
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“What’s happening right now that you do know?”
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“Let’s look around—what do we see that tells us we’re okay?”
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Use playful strategies like imagining the “What-If Monster” and making silly jokes to take away its power.
Build Confidence, One Step at a Time
Avoiding challenges can make anxiety grow. Instead, help your child face fears gradually—with support and celebration at each step. → Try this:
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Break tough situations into tiny, manageable steps.
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Role-play or rehearse what to say and do in different settings.
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Use a visual checklist or story to prepare for new experiences.
Show Yourself Compassion
Caring for a child with anxiety is emotional work. It’s okay not to have all the answers. What matters most is your presence and love. → Try this:
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Model how you handle stress: “I’m feeling overwhelmed, so I’m taking a breath.”
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Remind yourself: “This isn’t my fault. We’re learning together.”
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Make space for fun, rest, and connection as a family—those moments matter more than perfection.
Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center Provides Support for Parents
Supporting your child through anxiety doesn’t mean making everything perfect—it means walking with them as they learn how to cope. Small steps, patient listening, and steady love can make a world of difference.
If your child is struggling with anxiety and communication, we’re here to help. Our clinic supports families with practical tools and heart-centered care. To get started, book a free consultation with our North Liberty or Des Moines location today!
Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center has locations in the Iowa City, IA area and Des Moines, IA area. We provide individual speech-language therapy and tutoring programs. At Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center our passion is to help kids achieve effective communication skills and gain academic success. Contact us for more information on how we can help your child succeed.
info@enrichmenttherapies.com
740 Community Drive, Unit A
North Liberty, IA 52317
319-626-2553
infodm@enrichmenttherapies.com
5530 West Pkwy, Suite 300
Johnston, IA 50131
515-419-4270
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