Did you know that Finland has one of the highest rates of emotional disorders like stress, anxiety, and depression? Well, this resource is amazing. It’s called Worry Time or Worry Hour, and it’s not what you think.
“More than a parenting trend, the ‘Worry Hour’ is connected to a broader psychological idea that putting thoughts and emotions into words can help people process them.”
I heard about this on Instagram, checked it out, and did some research. This article explains it all. It provides a model for speaking to your young child or teen to help them pinpoint the worry or stress, then drawing or writing it down in a notebook as you discuss it with them. Finally, closing the book and letting them know today’s worries are gone for the day. This simple routine has been highly successful. If you’re interested in learning more about this technique, here are a few more resources. I’ve begun to do it myself on a stressful day, and it does work.
10 Practical Ways to Help Children Cope With Strong Emotions:
This article is for younger children, ages 3-6. It is a hands-on approach that they can actually envision their worries going down the drain.
This one is exceptional. It has a model for discussion and a printable form with directions and examples.
I'm Melinda Stevens and living the life of a beach bum was inevitable since my father was a lifeguard for the city of Los Angeles. My memories of growing up on John Street in Manhattan Beach, California were filled with joy, excitement and adventures; until my world, as I knew it, fell apart when we moved to Del Mar, California. My father was offered the position as Captain of the lifeguards and we started the slow migration to the small deserted stretch of beach in 1963. At twelve years old, this seemed like the end of my life. Remember, I’m writing with clear hindsight now, ok somewhat clearer… Little did I know this would be the beginning of a new journey and give a bit more clarity to many of the events that led me to this new cooking adventure.