The Child Anxiety FAQ

In today's episode, we tackle a common but complex question: "How can I support my anxious child while also addressing their inappropriate behavior?" Using a real-life example of a parent dealing with their 10-year-old's morning meltdowns before school, I explore some of the root causes of school refusal, the importance of ensuring a supportive environment, and strategies for managing anxiety and inappropriate behavior. From assessing whether the issue could be due to a poor school fit, separation anxiety, or lack of sleep, to planning and setting boundaries, I offer comprehensive advice on creating a balanced approach that supports both the child's emotional needs and your behavioral expectations. 

Also here's a link to the podcast I mention about manipulation:

Episode 95: How do I know if my anxious child is just being manipulative?

Hey, everyone. Welcome to the Child Anxiety FAQ podcast, where we tackle your pressing questions about child and teen anxiety. I'm Dawn Friedman, your host, with over 30 years of experience working with kids and families. In this week's episode, we'll confront a dilemma many parents face: should you let your anxious child have a phone? This question isn't straightforward, especially when considering the myriad complications of digital life, such as social media, online games, and the addictive nature of screens. I'll guide you through the difference between restriction and caution, provide insights into how to navigate these choices, and share strategies for fostering healthy digital habits. So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let's dive into this critical conversation about kids, screens, and anxiety.

Also! Mentions in the podcast!

https://www.ellynsatterinstitute.org (Ellyn Satter, creator of The Division of Responsibility around feeding)

http://ChildrenandScreens.org (a great resource with free webinars and a super useful newsletter)

Welcome back to The Child Anxiety FAQ podcast, where we tackle listener questions about child and teen anxiety. I'm your host, Dawn Friedman, and with over three decades of experience working with kids and families, I aim to bring you practical advice and insights. As the school year kicks off, many parents are concerned about the academic pressures their children face. Today's episode is all about exploring those pressures and finding ways to manage them effectively. We'll discuss the different kinds of academic stress kids encounter at various stages, from second graders to high school juniors, and how external factors like school culture and family values play a role. We'll also dive into how perfectionism and other underlying issues can contribute to anxiety and what parents can do to help. So stay tuned as we unravel these complexities and offer actionable strategies for supporting your child through their academic journey.

In this episode of The Child Anxiety FAQ podcast, we’re talking about whether already anxious kids struggle more with anxiety as they enter their teenage years. I’ll be sharing my experience working with kids and families for over 30 years and diving into the effects of hormone changes on anxiety. Join me for a casual, informative chat about child and teen anxiety and how it impacts parents.

Welcome back to The Child Anxiety FAQ podcast! In this week's episode, we're diving into the world of bedtime routines for anxious children. I share insight to help parents create a bedtime routine that fosters a sense of security and comfort for their anxious children. From the essential steps of a bedtime routine to addressing potential pushback from kids, I provide practical and actionable advice. I also introduce my 6 week coaching program, "Bedtime Navigator," designed to support parents in helping their anxious children get a good night's sleep. \Stay tuned for expert tips and strategies on promoting a peaceful and restful bedtime experience for anxious kids.

In this episode of The Child Anxiety FAQ, we talk about the tangible signs that a child's anxiety is impacting their sleep. Drawing from my extensive experience working with children and families, I explain how to recognize when anxiety is affecting a child's ability to sleep well. I also highlight the importance of addressing sleep issues alongside anxiety and offer insights into how improving a child's sleep can positively impact their overall anxiety functioning. If you want to learn more about my better sleep program for parents of anxious kids, you can check out my Bedtime Navigator 6-week coaching program.

This month, we're focusing on sleep, to coincide with the launch of my 6-week coaching program, Bedtime Navigator. Today's question addresses the challenge of prioritizing your child's sleep needs and your own well-being as a parent without feeling guilty or overwhelmed. We'll explore how guilt and overwhelm affect sleep, why consistency is crucial, and how to find balance in meeting both your child's and your own needs. Stay tuned for practical advice and insights on this common parenting struggle.

In this episode of The Child Anxiety Back podcast, we dive into the topic of sleep and child anxiety. We address a common concern: how to distinguish between typical sleep struggles and something more serious. I emphasize the importance of recognizing the validity of a child's sleep struggles and discusses the strong link between child anxiety and sleep issues. Delving into the definition of pediatric insomnia, we highlight the impact on both the child and the family and stress the need for parents to seek support and intervention if sleep struggles persist, offering insights into behavioral interventions and the creation of effective bedtime routines. If you'd like help with your anxious child's sleep issue, check out Bedtime Navigator, a 6-week coaching program for parents of anxious children who need a good night's sleep!

In this week's episode of The Child Anxiety FAQ, we continue to explore the delicate balance of setting limits and consequences for anxious children without causing shame or distress. Addressing feedback from previous episodes, I delve into the challenge of protecting both the anxious child and their family members from the natural consequences of anxious behavior. I emphasize the importance of understanding and supporting the child's developmental journey, especially in situations where the child struggles to control overwhelming feelings. With practical insights and empathy, I offer advice for parents navigating this complex terrain. Tune in to discover valuable strategies for supporting your anxious child and fostering a nurturing family environment.

In this episode of The Child Anxiety FAQ, we challenge the notion of avoiding distress and emphasizes the importance of helping children learn to cope with discomfort, a fundamental tool in managing anxiety. We explore the difference between punishment and consequences, emphasizing the effectiveness of logical consequences in guiding children's decision-making. We also discuss the role of shame in parenting anxious children and offer insights on utilizing time-out as a protective measure rather than a punishment. Join us as we unravel effective strategies for setting limits and consequences while nurturing our anxious children without causing undue distress or shame.