School counselors across the country are seeing more anxiety in their students. In this post, we’ll delve into evidence-based interventions designed to address anxiety effectively in elementary-aged students. From cognitive-behavioral therapy to mindfulness techniques, discover practical strategies tailored to support the emotional well-being of young learners. Join us as we explore evidence-based interventions for anxiety in kids to help them navigate these feelings and thrive in their academic and social environments.
Evidence-Based Interventions for Anxiety in Kids
1 – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT strategies have long shown success in helping children and adults like to manage anxiety. Psycho-education, self-monitoring, cognitive restructuring, response prevention, and more pillars of CBT are crucial to helping kids recognize and address anxiety. Use these videos to help teach these strategies in your groups. To learn more about how to do this in the school setting, check out this 1-hour webinar:
2 – Mindfulness-Based Interventions
Body and thought awareness are key components of helping kids learn to manage anxiety. As kids learn to tune into their feelings and thoughts, they can make connections between experiences and emotions. Mindfulness strategies also help kids disconnect from worries about the past and the future and tune into the here-and-now! Read more about why kids need mindfulness and explore mindfulness resources for kids below:
3 – Social Skills Training
Teaching children social skills such as assertiveness, effective communication, and problem-solving can enhance their ability to cope with social anxiety and build confidence in social situations. Social skills can be explicitly taught just like other academic skills, and taking time to do so helps kids find success inside the classroom and out on the playground! Read more about teaching social skills here or explore social skills activities below:
4 – Physical Activity
Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce anxiety symptoms in children by promoting the release of endorphins and reducing stress hormones. Incorporating movement into classroom activities and prioritizing recess and free play are so important for kids! Creating routines around this can be especially helpful for kids dealing with anxiety.
5 – Relaxation Techniques
Teaching children relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, or yoga can help them learn to calm their bodies and minds when feeling anxious. Read more about:
6 – Bibliotherapy
Reading age-appropriate books or stories that address anxiety can help children understand and normalize their feelings, as well as learn coping strategies through fictional characters’ experiences. Find my favorite children’s books about worry here:
Keep Reading:
- 12 Strategies to Support Kids with Anxiety in the Classroom
- Psychoeducation Teaching Points for Kids with Anxiety
- Games to Teach Worry Management Skills
