Anxiety, worry, and stress are normal emotions that we all experience, right? So why do we try so hard to make it stop when it surfaces in our children (of any age)? Today’s guest is a friend who knows firsthand about helping children with anxiety.
Her name is Katie Wetsell, and she is the founder of Parent with Hope! She is a pediatric nurse, mom of four, and specializes in SPACE training to help parents support their children with anxiety.
If you have wondered how to help your child overcome fears or anxiety, this is the episode for you! Katie helps us navigate our children’s fears with empathy and confidence.
#002 – Katie Wetsell of Parent With Hope joins Alan & Corrie to help us understand why our children experience anxiety and how to help them without becoming anxious parents.
Episode Notes
[1:16] – Katie’s story of learning about anxiety and OCD in two different sons
[9:07] – Professional help is great, but what do PARENTS do about their child’s anxiety?
[11:06] – How does anxiety show up in your child (control, negativity, aggression, etc.)?
[15:30] – 3 signs your child might have anxiety beyond normal levels and may need professional help
[18:35] – How is OCD different than anxiety?
[24:22] – How can parents navigate anxiety in their children with wisdom?
[25:36] – Two typical parenting responses to anxiety
[28:42] – Empathizing AND Coaching your child through anxiety
[29:45] – Validating feelings without validating a false reality
[31:30] – Externalizing your child’s anxiety
[35:07] – The importance of moving beyond empathy to coach your child
[37:57] – Role Play: Separation Anxiety
Links
- Click here to see Katie’s Resources page.
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