Taming the Dragons

Even before Covid, parents, teachers and caregivers were noting the rise in mental health concerns in children.  School curriculum often includes strategies to help with emotional regulation and identifying the signs of low mood or anxiety.  Ask your child about "triangle" or "mountain" breathing!

Anxiety comes in all shapes and sizes.  Sometimes there are specific phobias (eg. dark, heights, being alone) and sometimes there are generalized anxieties.  No matter what the trigger is, our job as parents and caregivers is to guide and support them through their response.  This is easier said than done.

Having the communication skills and using language that your child will understand is the first step to helping them.  You may choose to reach out to a counsellor or psychologist that is a good fit for your child and your family.  But please remember that the heavy lifting occurs at home where we have the opportunity to practice these tools.