Being a parent often feels like a wild ride, especially when your child is dealing with school anxiety. It’s tough, but managing your own feelings is a key part of helping your child through their worries. Think of it like setting up your compass to help both of you find your way through a confusing and stressful time. Based on my work with families, here’s a guide to help you manage your emotions and support your child better.
Keeping track of your feelings can be like having a personal map of your emotional state. By understanding your own emotions, you can show your child how to handle theirs. Try keeping a mood journal—a simple daily record of how you’re feeling and what might have caused those feelings. For example, if a tough call from your child’s school left you feeling frustrated, write it down. This can help you see patterns and deal with your reactions more effectively.
Just as you observe what triggers your child’s anxiety, it’s important to recognize what triggers your own stress. Maybe certain situations or interactions with school staff make you feel frustrated. Knowing these triggers helps you prepare and respond better.
Self-compassion is like giving yourself a break during tough times. When you feel overwhelmed, remind yourself it’s okay to have these feelings. Being kind to yourself helps you stay calm and supportive, setting a good example for your child. Show them how you handle stress, whether it’s through deep breathing, taking a walk, or relaxing with a cup of tea.
Demonstrate how you manage your stress and frustration. For instance, if you’re feeling stressed, explain how you plan to deal with it. This helps your child see how to handle their own worries. Talk about your feelings in simple ways that your child can understand. You might say, “I was frustrated today because of work, but I took a few deep breaths to feel better.” This makes it normal for them to have and handle emotions. Let your child see how you solve problems calmly. For example, if you’re facing a challenge, explain your plan to address it. This shows them a practical way to handle their own school-related worries.
A calm and supportive home is like a safe place during a storm. By managing your own emotions, you create a stable environment for your child to learn how to handle their feelings. Be patient and understanding with yourself, just as you would want others to be with you. Celebrate small successes and be kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned. If managing your emotions is too difficult, do not hesitate to get help from a mental health professional. They can provide you with additional tools and strategies to handle your feelings better, which in turn helps your child.
By keeping track of your own feelings and managing them, you make things easier for both yourself and your child. Just as you help them deal with school worries, understanding your own emotions can make the process smoother. With a bit of patience, kindness, and clear communication, you can guide your child through their challenges and make the emotional journey a bit easier for everyone. Ready to be the best co-pilot on this ride? 
