Children experience worries throughout their development, some more than others. It is important that children are helped to develop skills for managing feelings and coping with fear. Following are four books I often use with children and young people that may be useful for you when supporting your child.
A Huge Bag of Worries by Virginia Ironside (recommended ages 4 - 10 years) this book highlights the concept of worries building up on top of on another, until they become so large that they can impact our sleep, school and other aspects of life. The book encourages sharing worries, as this can help to make them more manageable.
Hey Warrior by Karen Young (recommended ages 6 and up) - this book is a great resource as it helps to explain to children and young people what actually happens in our brain when we are feeling anxious. Having the knowledge as to why we sometimes respond they way we do, can be very empowering.
The Boy and a Bear: The Children's relaxation book by Lori Lite (recommended ages 3-10years) - .this book introduces children to breathing and techniques to support calming for sleep when feeling worried/anxious.
What to do when you worry too much by Bonnie Matthews - (recommended 6-12 years with parental support) is an interactive kids self help book designed to guide kids through a range of cognitive behavioural therapy based activities to help support anxiety.
