Shrink Your Worries with Poppy 'O Neil, Episode #174

About this episode

This episode explores childhood anxiety and offers practical strategies for parents to help children build resilience and face their fears.

Childhood anxiety is more common than many parents realize, and it can show up in ways that are confusing or overwhelming for both children and the adults who care for them. In this episode, we explore how worries take shape in a child’s mind and what families can do to help children build confidence, resilience, and bravery in the face of fear. Inspired by the ideas behind Shrink Your Worries, this conversation focuses on practical ways to help children understand their anxious thoughts, calm their bodies, and gradually face the situations that feel scary. Rather than trying to eliminate worry completely, the goal is to help children learn that they are capable of moving through fear with the right tools and support. We discuss why worries can feel so big for children, how avoidance can unintentionally strengthen anxiety, and why small steps toward bravery can make a powerful difference over time. Parents will also learn how to respond to anxious moments with calm, connection, and encouragement so children feel supported rather than overwhelmed. This episode is especially helpful for parents, educators, and professionals who want to better understand childhood anxiety and learn…

People in this episode

Host: Institute of Child Psychology

Guest: Poppy 'O Neil

Topics covered

• childhood anxiety
• parenting strategies
• building resilience
• facing fears
• supporting children

Keywords

• childhood anxiety
• worries
• resilience
• parenting
• support
• fear
• confidence

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Institute of Child Psychology

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