Working with Worry: A Workbook for Parents on How To Support Anxious Children

Social worker Kilbride and psychologist Sweeney present a practical, action-filled plan for the nearly one in three young people who struggle with anxiety. In the first chapter they explore what anxiety may look like in a child. Next, the authors examine the parents’ role, suggesting they examine their own thoughts and actions in order to determine how they may be contributing to their children’s issues. Chapter three is dedicated to interventions and includes 60 activities parents and children can engage in together. The book is not meant to replace therapy or be diagnostic, but does contain workable strategies that can be implemented. The authors debunk many common myths about anxiety: shyness and anxiety are not the same thing; a total removal of anxiety is not the goal; good parents don’t always know when their child is struggling. Down-to-earth suggestions such as using a sponge for muscle relaxation, making a comic drawing to relieve anxiety, and creating a worry jar are included, as well as journaling prompts for parents and children. The final section includes books, websites, and other resources for further information and physiological information on the workings of the brain.