Working through worries
With gentle parenting on the rise, our society is learning more and more about the importance of acknowledging big feelings in tiny humans. Children’s brains may expand at an incredible rate as they take in new information and lessons all around them, but they sometimes struggle to verbalize and communicate their emotions.
Luckily, more and more supportive new guides are coming out every day, all designed to provide kids with the tools they need to tackle these challenging emotions. We’ve rounded uptools to support kids’ mental health so you can make sure the children in your life have the support they need to grow into the best version of themselves.
In this international bestseller, Color Monster wakes up to find himself feeling every sort of emotion at once, his entire appearance is a snarl of scribbles in every colour. Luckily, a patient friend is there to help him go through the colours one at a time, identifying them with the corresponding emotion. Wrapped in engaging cut-paper illustrations, at its core “The Color Monster” is a vital tool in teaching children to name their emotions and understand and voice their thoughts and concerns.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is a tried-and-true psychology method that’s helped countless people find actionable ways to improve their mental health. The question is, how does one teach these sorts of techniques in a way children will find interesting?
Parul Cedilnik, a clinical child’s psychologist of over 25 years (and a mom herself ), has the answer. Her short story collection “Talk to My Brain” features six stories with engaging protagonists and realistic challenges in kids’ day-to-day lives. From Shina’s nerves over her upcoming piano recital to Kevin’s discouragement when he struggles with an assignment, each story is packed full of relatable situations.
Each story is also accompanied by a supplementary discussion guide designed for parents, guardians and educators to go over each lesson and method — providing children with techniques that will aid them in becoming confident, adaptable and self-assured. “Ruby Finds a Worry” introduces us to — you guessed it, Ruby and a worry! At first, the worry is so small, Ruby thinks it isn’t worth mentioning. But as time goes on, the worry grows and grows until suddenly it’s all she can see. It’s only when Ruby talks to a fellow worrier that she realizes how much it helps to voice her anxiety. Suddenly, that big worry doesn’t seem quite so scary.
As part of the Big Bright Feelings series, this children’s book skillfully depicts the way anxieties can grow and spiral out of control until they seem to take over. But it also shows young readers that sharing our feelings helps us put these worries into perspective, rather than letting them grow unchecked and gives our loved ones the opportunity to support us.
Focusing solely on anxiety, this workbook gives kids the tools and vocabulary they need to voice their fears and “be the boss of their brains.” “When Harley Has Anxiety” uses its lovable and adorable protagonist to guide young readers through coping mechanisms, personal goals and over 45 activities, all meant to help them face their fears.
A licensed psychologist with a focus on treating children and teens with anxiety, Regine Galanti strives to implement CBT techniques throughout Harley’s various activities, all while maintaining a fun and positive outlook.
For young children, a powerful, lingering emotion like sadness can feel overwhelming and hard to manage. Thoughtful and empathetic, “When Sadness is at Your Door” introduces children to the concept of sadness not as a something to be frightened of, but instead a guest and companion that deserves respect. Quiet illustrations model how young readers can sit with their sadness, respecting and listening to what it has to say, before going about activities that might help alleviate it. Viewing sadness as a guest helps readers understand that while the emotion may stick around for a bit, it won’t stay forever.
Sometimes, all we need is a little guidance to get on the right track. And when it comes to something like low self-worth, it’s important to curb that behaviour early. Luckily, Chip is there for them — a friendly, relatable little creature who is struggling with the same problems. “Sometimes I’m Sad” gives kids the model they need to work through tips, tricks, positive affirmations and practical information. And with prompts like “positivity scavenger hunt,” “mood tracker” and “room for all my emotions,” Chip and young readers will find the fun in these activities together.
Sometimes, what we all really need is to just chill out. But while anger, frustration or upset aren’t pleasant to deal with, sometimes those big feelings overwhelm kids. In such times of negativity, it can be hard for them to change course and find relaxation and positivity — but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
If you’re looking to teach the way of zen to a child in your life, “The Calm Workbook” is here to help. Its soothing activity prompts are designed to help children find peace in the wake of powerful emotions, through challenges like creating a power-down routine, or dispelling anxiety through mindful breathing and a listening game. And who knows? Maybe adults can pick up some relaxation techniques along the way, too!