Anxiety in the Classroom:

Helpful hints for working with children who suffer from anxiety and related disorders.

Require gradual steps for participation (inform child of expectations)

Example:  Child is avoiding cafeteria.
Have child walk down the hall halfway to cafeteria holding your hand
Walk all the way to the cafeteria holding your hand
Walk to the cafeteria with no physical contact
Walk into cafeteria (can leave immediately)
Walk into cafeteria and require to stay for increasing time periods
(5 sec., 10 sec., 30 sec., 1 minute, 3 minutes, etc.) with adult support
Gradually fade adult support

Try not to reinforce irrational thoughts or excessive checking, but reinforce attempts to face fears

Gently challenge negative thoughts (e.g. What is the worst thing
that would happen?  Do you think that is REALLY going to happen?
  What would you do if that happened?

Answer questions only once and have a planned strategy for redirection (write it down, visual cue, ignoring)

Provide praise or small tangible rewards for positive progress
(even baby steps)

Use distraction techniques

Allow them to chew gum

Ask them to count backward

Have them snap a rubber band on their wrist or their chair

Repeat positive coping statements:
You can handle this
It’s only anxiety; don’t let it get to you.
I’ve been though this before and it’s really not scary.
Relax and go slowly

Allow the child to engage in some physical activity.

Keep open and regular communication with family.

RESOURCES:

Bullying: Not Just "Kids Being Kids"

Good Social Skills Improve Learning and Safety

Response to Intervention

Day and evening
appointments
are available.

information@behaviorhealthpartners.com