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Dr. Kim Van Dusen | PSYD | LMFT | RPT
@theparentologist

109,591 followers

Here is a play-based way to help support your child if they are experiencing anxiety symptoms. First, have them name the anxiety. Many of my clients will give it an actual name like “Bob” or “Joe” or make up a code word for it like “bubbles” or “black cloud”. Next have them draw on a piece of paper what their anxiety looks like. It might just be a scribble or it might actually look like a human or even a monster. They might use one color or multiple colors. It’s important not to make any comments about their drawing, but if they ask you about it, you can say something general like “so this is what your anxiety looks like” or “I see you used black to express your anxiety”. Just try not to analyze, interpret, judge, or shame their drawing for any reason. Even saying something like “wow I really like your drawing” may not come across as supportive. This exercise helps your child externalize their anxiety, so instead of it living inside of them and controlling them, it’s now on the outside looking in. It’s not attached to them, and this will help them feel like they can control the anxiety instead. They can throw the paper away or hang it up when they are done. Most children will keep it as a reminder that they are in control. That they can see it, acknowledge it, and then walk away from it. And when they use their name or code word in the future, you will know how to help them by using their coping skills or leave an overstimulated or overwhelming environment. #theparentologist #theparentologistpodcast #parenting #parentingtips #parentinghacks #playbasedlearning #playbasededucation #sensoryplay #sensoryactivity #toddlermom #toddlermomlife #toddlermoms #toddlerproblems #toddlerhacks #parentingsupport #momssupportingmoms #momshelpingmoms #rawmotherhood #realmotherhood #newparents #newmom #newmoms #parentingsolutions #parentingtips #parentingproblems