What practical brain-based techniques can parents use to ease their children's worries and build resilience?

Today we’re examining childhood anxiety through the lens of brain science. Join me as we explore the role of the amygdala, our brain's vigilant security guard, and how it sometimes overreacts and triggers anxiety in children. From bedtime fears to school stress, I share stories and scientific insights to unravel these complex responses, and uncover the importance of creating positive experiences to rewire anxious brains. I’ll also provide some strategies for parents and caregivers to support their children. Let’s navigate the intricacies of childhood anxiety together! 

Topics discussed in this episode include:
- How childhood anxiety is rooted in brain science, focusing on the amygdala's role.
- How understanding childhood anxiety's evolutionary backdrop helps contextualize modern stress responses.
- Why the amygdala acts as a security guard, triggering anxiety over perceived threats.
- Why understanding "if it fires together, it wires together" is key in addressing anxiety.
- How anxiety presents differently across developmental stages from toddlers to teenagers.
- How fostering positive experiences helps counteract the impact of anxiety on children.
- Strategies that can support parents in managing their children's anxiety.
- The “name it to tame it” strategy, which settles the amygdala.
- Phrases that should be avoided, as they are counterproductive.
- “Breath to believe,” and what to remember when teaching this to your child.
- How you can use gradual exposure to relieve your children’s anxiety.
- Why sharing personal stories can help build a supportive community for managing anxiety.

Green Door Clinic: https://www.greendooryeg.ca

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