I usually do gardening or healthy food posts on Wednesday, but I’m making an exception today to talk about something important.
Over the past year, I’ve noticed Bear was developing a little anxiety. Before I go any further, I need to explain what this child is like. He’s rambunctious. He’s intelligent. He’s active. He’s quiet when it’s appropriate. He’s playful. He’s sympathetic. He’s courageous.
And he was developing anxiety.
As I go over activity books in addition to what he learned in preschool, I began to notice some reluctance to learn new things. He’s not dyslexic (to my knowledge) nor do I know of any other learning disabilities. Yet, certain concepts he didn’t want to attempt to understand.
And then he uttered the oft-said phrase used by almost every child: “I can’t.”
I was confused. We were on my bed, trying to go over Spanish numbers; something he has often recited for no reason. Suddenly, he couldn’t get them.
He began to cry. He was so disappointed in himself and despite me telling him it was okay that sometimes he forgot, he wasn’t listening. Then, I suggested Quiet Time.
Quiet Time in our household is another phrase for meditation. I have the Stop, Breathe, & Think app installed on my phone and I’ve raved about how much I love this app before. I opened the app and went straight to the One Minute to Focus meditation (I only do one minute for now because Bear is five and well, I’m not sure if he can meditate for longer than a minute right now).
We sat in bed and just focused on our breathing. Inhale. Exhale. Quieting thoughts. Releasing stress. Focusing on the present.
After a minute, I turned off the app and Bear was back – my happy, vibrant, and confident Bear. I asked if he wanted to try again and he was enthusiastic about it.
He got all of the numbers down – and some of the colors!
Let me be clear – what I’m suggesting is not a substitution for seeing a medical professional or being on medication. You do what’s best for you and your child. I think quieting Bear’s brain for a short while, gave him the extra confidence boost he needed.
And we both were happy we did!
What are some anxiety-busters you employ?
