How Parents Can Help

• • Be consistent with problem-solving strategies and discipline administration

  • Maintain realistic, attainable goals and expectations for your child

  • Maintain a consistent, but flexible, routine for homework, chores, and activities

  • Accept mistakes as a normal part of growing up and learning experiences

  • Praise and positively reinforce your child’s effort

  • Practice situational events (i.e. speaking in public) until a comfort level is reached

  • Listen to and talk with your child on a regular basis regarding their concerns and avoid being critical

  • Seek professional help if their anxiety level becomes problematic and interferes with their daily activities

Useful Websites:

Anxiety Disorders Association of America  - www.aada.org

National Mental Health Association - www.nmha.org 

*This information was derived from a handout entitled, “Anxiety and Anxiety Disorders in Children:  Information for Parents,” by Thomas J. Huberty, PhD, NCSP in Helping Children at Home and School II:  Handouts for Familes and Educators, NASP 2004.