The Blog for Parenting Anxious Kids

Ever feel like you’re in a reality show where your kids are the judges? Well, Ohio State University has some news for you: “Ease up! Perfection is a myth!”

Trying to be the superhero of parenting is like signing up for a marathon without any training. It’s tiring, stressful, and honestly, who enjoys running that much? This “all or nothing” approach is not just unrealistic, it’s harmful to you and your little ones.

In a survey of over 700 parents (who were likely seeking refuge in the bathroom), 57% confessed to feeling burned out. That’s more than half! And here’s the twist: this burnout is linked to everything from our self-image as parents to the state of our homes. Who knew that laundry mountain could be so destructive?

And let’s discuss the impact on our kids. When they’re grappling with mental health issues, we feel the strain even more. It’s a relentless cycle of stress, stern parenting, and more stress. It’s like an endless game of tag where everyone’s “it.”

And social media...

The issue of school bullying is one that can stir a tempest of emotions in the hearts of parents. Witnessing or learning about someone causing harm to your child can evoke a primal anger, a fierce protective instinct. However, in the midst of these stormy feelings, it's crucial to anchor ourselves with empathy and understanding, both for our children's sake and our own. Here's how we can navigate these turbulent waters, turning our anger into action and empathy into empowerment

Understanding Parental Anger

First, it's important to acknowledge that anger, in the face of your child's suffering, is a natural response. It signifies your deep love and concern. However, the way we handle this anger can make a significant difference in the outcome for our children. Anger, when channeled constructively, can motivate us to take positive steps. Left unchecked, it can cloud our judgment and hinder our ability to provide the support our children need.

Channeling Anger into Advocacy

1. Educate ...

In the bustling hallways of our children's schools, beneath the laughter and chatter, lies an often-unseen struggle: school anxiety. It's a challenge that many children face, yet it remains shrouded in silence. As parents and caregivers, the role we play in navigating and alleviating this anxiety is monumental. The cornerstone of our approach? Empathetic parenting.

Understanding School Anxiety

School anxiety can manifest in various forms, from butterflies in the stomach on the first day of school to overwhelming stress about exams or social situations. It's a natural response to the pressures of academic and social expectations. However, when anxiety begins to interfere with a child's ability to learn and enjoy school, it becomes a concern that needs addressing.

The Power of Empathetic Parenting

Empathetic parenting is about more than just understanding our children's feelings; it's about stepping into their shoes and experiencing the world from their perspective. This approach ...

If you're looking for some great mother's days gifts ideas or just gift ideas in general. Or just wanting something excellent to read for yourself or your household. 

Here are some excellent books that can help parents support their anxious children who refuse to attend school:

1. "The Opposite of Worry: The Playful Parenting Approach to Childhood Anxieties and Fears": This book provides practical strategies for parents dealing with anxious kids. It emphasizes a playful approach to addressing childhood worries and fears.

2. “Anxious Kids” by Michael Grose and Dr. Jodi Richardson: This book offers a new perspective on children’s anxiety, encouraging parents to view each episode as an opportunity to empower their kids with skills to manage anxiety and thrive. It covers topics like emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and resilience.

3. "What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety": Geared toward early readers, this book helps children understand and cop...

Navigating the endless sea of parenting choices can feel like trying to find a quiet moment in a house full of kids—nearly impossible.

We're all striving to make the 'right' decisions, but let's face it, the 'best' choice is often elusive because:

• Decision Overload: Every day, we face a barrage of decisions. Organic snacks or whatever's on sale? Another extracurricular or some much-needed downtime? It's enough to make anyone's head spin.

• The Habit Loop: It's tempting to follow the crowd or stick with what's familiar. After all, who has the time to research every single option when you're already juggling a million things?

• The Myth of the 'Best': In a world where every product claims to be a game-changer, it's easy to get caught up in the hype. But sometimes, the best option is just the one that gets the job done.

• The tyranny of choice: Picking a show on Netflix shouldn't be hard, yet there we are, scrolling endlessly. Sometimes, the best choice is just hittin

  ...

I hope this message finds you well. Today, I wanted to share a simple yet profound lesson that unfolded right in my kitchen.

It involves a young girl and her choice of cup—a blue one over another adorned with Elsa from Frozen. While it may seem like a minor detail, it's a significant one for her. Both cups fulfill the same function, yet she is adamant about her preference.

This scenario might perplex some. Why does it matter? It's just a cup, after all. But for her, it's not just about the vessel—it's about consistency and comfort in her daily life. The wrong cup can unsettle her, a reminder that even the smallest choices can have a big impact on someone's day.

As adults, we might overlook such nuances. We see two cups; she sees a choice that defines her day. We see water; she sees a cherished part of her routine. We see an ordinary object; she sees an extension of her identity.

When we mistakenly hand her the Elsa cup, her reaction is more than a fleeting tantrum. It's a sign of h...