The return to school after winter break can be challenging, especially for children dealing with anxiety. Shorter days, less sunlight, and colder weather can intensify feelings of worry and unease. The return of school routines, new social dynamics, and academic pressures can also contribute to these feelings.
For parents, it can feel overwhelming to know how best to support their anxious child during this time, but understanding the nature of the anxiety and using effective strategies can make a significant difference.
The Parenting Your Anxious Child group, led by Dr. Zia Lakdawalla and Tara Doherty, offers expert guidance for parents navigating this difficult transition. Using the SPACE approach, this 8-week group provides practical tools to help reduce anxiety, build resilience, and empower parents to support their child’s emotional health. This virtual program is an excellent resource for parents looking for actionable strategies to manage their child’s anxiety. To register, contact us at parentgroup@possibilitiesclinic.com.
The SPACE approach—Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions—is an effective way to support an anxious child. This approach focuses on breaking the cycle of avoidance and helping children gradually face their fears in a safe, supportive way. Rather than reinforcing avoidance behaviors, which can make anxiety worse, SPACE encourages parents to provide emotional support while also encouraging children to confront anxiety-provoking situations at their own pace.
Key elements of SPACE include validating your child’s feelings, offering consistent reassurance, and fostering a sense of agency in handling their anxieties. When children feel understood and supported, they are more likely to develop the confidence needed to navigate stressful situations. The goal is not to eliminate anxiety entirely, but to equip children with the tools to manage it in a healthy and productive way.
By using the SPACE approach, parents can play a pivotal role in helping their child build resilience and confidence as they ease back into the school routine after winter break. Parenting Your Anxious Child is an excellent way for parents to gain these strategies and start fostering a calmer, more resilient environment for their child.
