Redirect

Using redirect for reducing anxiety and feeling safe Recognize what you want to see: Feeling safe, talking about feelings, acting brave. Use the skill: Help your child use their senses when they get anxious. For example, “This carpet feel soft and fuzzy. How would you describe it?” “I wonder how many green things we can […]

Adjust the Environment

Using adjust the environment for reducing anxiety and feeling safe Recognize what you want to see: Feeling safe, calmly talking about feelings, acting brave. Use the skill: Talk to your child about what makes them feel safe and try to add these things to your home. For example, nightlight, a note, weighted blanket, or calm […]

Transitions

Using transitions for reducing anxiety and feeling safe Recognize what you want to see: Feeling safe, calmly talking about feelings, acting brave. Use the skill: Try creating a transition routine with your child before and after stressful events. For example, have play time, sing a song, press hands together, or have a special phrase you […]

Enjoy

Using enjoy for reducing anxiety and feeling safe Recognize what you want to SEE: Feeling safe, calmly talking about feelings, acting brave. Use the skill: Show enjoyment whenever you can. For example, “I really love hanging out with you.” “You are one of my favorite people.” Purpose:Let your child know you enjoy being with them. […]

Describe

Using descriptions for reducing anxiety and feeling safe Recognize what you want to SEE: Feeling safe, calmly talking about feelings, acting brave. Use the skill: Practice descriptions whenever you can. For example, “You are looking at the colors. You chose pink. And now you’re starting your drawing.” Purpose:Descriptions are a fun way to practice mindfulness. […]

Imitate

Using imitation for reducing anxiety and feeling safe Recognize what you want to see: Feeling safe, calmly talking about feelings, acting brave. Use the skill: Imitate whenever your child faces a fear. For example, your child might be afraid of dogs but says they want to pet a cute dog at the park. Imitate by […]

Reflect

Using reflections for reducing anxiety and feeling safe Recognize what you want to see: Feeling safe, calmly talking about feelings, acting brave. Use the skill: If your child comes to you very upset and crying, focus on reflecting the main points. Maybe say  “Something happened!” if you can’t understand exactly what they’re saying. Purpose: All […]

Praise

Using praise for reducing anxiety and feeling safe Recognize what you want to see: Feeling safe, calmly talking about feelings, acting brave. Use the skill: Praise whenever they tell you about something scary or when they do something that makes them anxious. For example, “Thank you for telling me about this.” or “You are so […]