How do I set limits for my anxious child without feeling guilty?

In today's episode, we're diving into the  topic of setting limits for your anxious child without succumbing to guilt. We talk about the complexities parents face, particularly those who are working to heal their own childhood wounds while supporting their children. We'll address why feelings of guilt are a natural part of parenting and how understanding anxiety can help in making informed, beneficial decisions for our children.  If you're ready to unpack the mess of emotions and strategies around parenting an anxious child, stay tuned!

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What are some practical steps I can take to encourage my child to tolerate their anxiety?

In today's episode of The Child Anxiety FAQ, host Dawn Friedman MSEd addresses a crucial question from our listeners: What are some practical steps I can take to encourage my child to tolerate their anxiety? With over 30 years of experience working with children and families, I offer general strategies that can be adapted to different age groups and situations. The goal is not to eliminate anxiety, but to help children understand and tolerate it. I emphasize education about the normalcy of anxiety, externalizing it by giving it a name or character, and developing strategies to engage with it. Join me as we talk about effective techniques to support our children in managing their anxious feelings, fostering resilience, and embracing new experiences with a sense of adventure. If you have questions or concerns about your child's anxiety, visit my website at childanxietysupport.com to learn more and while you're there, check out the Parenting Pitfalls quiz!

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How do I deal with my anger towards my anxious child?

Welcome back to another episode of The Child Anxiety FAQ, where your questions about child and teen anxiety are answered. I'm your host, Dawn Friedman, and today we're diving into a challenging but common issue many parents face: dealing with anger towards their anxious children. With over three decades of experience working with families, I'm here to help you understand the roots of this anger, often linked to catching your child's anxiety, and offer strategies to manage it. Join me as we explore how to create space for yourself, recognize anxiety's role in these emotions, and foster forgiveness and understanding in your relationship with your child.

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How can I support my anxious child while also addressing their behavior?

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?

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Should I let my anxious child have a phone?

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)

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What are some practical ways to address the academic pressures and expectations that contribute to my child's anxiety?

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.

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Do already anxious children struggle more with anxiety as they enter adolesence?

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.

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