Slow deep breaths - your body needs oxygen 

Practice mindfulness techniques - visualization, meditation and gratitude mantras 

Creative, hands on activities (playing with Lego, Playdough, drawing etc.) helps with self expression 

Exercise is a great stress reliver - reduces tension in a mentally and physically positive way 

Talking to a trusted friend or caring adult - expressing strong emotions is important to a child's development 

Positive self talk habits will encourage positive emotions which will lead to positive outcomes 

Schedule fun activities (public playgrounds, community based events, trips to the public library etc. ) on a regular basis can help children change their mindset from dwelling on negative events to looking forward to positive ones 

Make a 'to do list' which helps students stay focused and stay in the moment 

If you feel you or your child needs help, reach out. There are many professional organizations that can help. 

Respond positively, avoid reaction

Maintain a predictable, safe environment where children know what to expect 

Model positive expression by talking openly and honestly to your child about your mental health  

Acknowledge their fears and struggles  as legitimate, truly listen and avoid downplaying their feelings 

Keep family time sacred (dinner time, Sunday Mass, praying the Rosary, games night, etc.) 

Remind your child about past positive experiences and accomplishments and what strategies they used to get there 

Talk about times where they worked through anxiety and remind them of strategies that worked