My child has a lot of anxiety
Before You Begin
Pause and breathe. Even if this shouldn't be happening... accept that it is and embrace it with composure and calmness.
Calmness is the only way forward because without calm, there is no possibility for receptiveness and connection. Your child won't give to you any more than they see from you.
Never forget that a strong connection is fundamental, as there will be no correction in them if there is no connection with you.
The Core Problem
They are hyper-focused on all of the big and small threats to them that are a natural part of life.
What Will Make It Worse
Reacting with frustration and/or pressuring them in the direction of what is bothering them will worsen the child's anxiety.
Dismissing their fears will only continue to leave them ill-equipped to cope with this problem.
What The Child Needs
1. To be heard about what things they are presently worrying about.
2. To figure out what bad thing happened in the past that makes them preoccupied with what could happen in the future.
3. To feel the safety and love of their family inside the house, and community outside of the house.
How To Have The Conversation With Your Child
Find a private room where the child feels comfortable to talk without distractions.
Use empathy and active listening to better understand the root of their anxiety, and show that you genuinely care that this is troubling them deeply.
Avoid judgment and criticism during the conversation.
Even if it doesn't all happen at once, start acting on the provided items that the child needs.
Ideally, having them talk out their worries will help them realize the unlikeliness of it all so they can spend a lot less time waiting for the worst to happen.