Facing Changes

Some kids breeze through big changes without a hitch. But if your child is a worrier, milestones like starting a new school can cause overwhelming anxiety. So how can you help? Here are some practical ideas.

ASK “What’s the worst that could happen”? It might sound silly, but speaking our worst fears out loud can help put them in perspective, like this:

Q: “What’s the worst that could happen if you can’t find your new classroom?”

A: “I’d be late, and everyone would look at me.”

Q: “What’s the worst that could happen if you were late?”

A: “People would think I was dumb.”

Q: “If someone else was late, would you think they were dumb?”

A: “Well, no . . . I guess not.”

PRAY about those specific fears together: “God, Abby is worried that she won’t be able to find her new classroom. Please help her to find it OK and send her people to give her directions. Help her not to be scared, and help her to remember that you are always with her wherever she goes.”

KNOW when to get professional help. If anxiety is making your child physically sick, unusually depressed, or self-destructive, find a trained Christian professional to talk with. Reassure your child that this does not mean he is “crazy”—it’s the same as seeing a medical doctor for a broken bone.

THANK God for answered prayer when your child gets through something that was causing her anxiety.