Supporting Children Through Anxiety – Insights from Modern Research and Te Ao Māori

Parenting can be a journey full of joys and challenges, and one of the most common hurdles many parents face is understanding and supporting children with anxiety. In our recent HELP radio show, we discussed practical strategies rooted in both expert research and te ao Māori (the Māori worldview) to help families navigate childhood anxiety.

Understanding Childhood Anxiety

Childhood anxiety is not uncommon and can arise for various reasons, such as new social situations, academic pressure, or change in routine. Leading psychologists, like Dr. Anne Marie Albano, suggest that while it’s natural for parents to want to protect their children, finding a balance between support and independence is crucial. Over time, this balance can help children develop resilience, confidence, and the ability to handle stress more effectively.

The Family’s Role in Building Resilience

Research shows that children often model their parents’ emotional responses. Dr. Susan Bögels’ studies emphasize how mindful parenting—approaching interactions calmly and with awareness—can reduce anxiety in children by creating a soothing emotional environment. In a similar vein, te ao Māori emphasizes the concept of whānau ora, meaning the well-being of the family unit. When a family supports each other’s emotional needs, it strengthens the resilience of every member, especially the children.

Learning Through Connection: The Power of Whakapapa

A significant part of te ao Māori is whakapapa, or ancestral connections. Māori culture teaches that a sense of belonging—knowing who you are and where you come from—can offer stability and strength to children facing anxiety. By sharing stories of family resilience, parents can help their children feel supported by a legacy that extends beyond themselves.

Tips for Parents: Blending Research with Cultural Values

1. Encourage Gradual Independence
   Support your child in small, manageable steps that build their confidence without overwhelming them. Start by celebrating small achievements to reinforce their sense of accomplishment and resilience.

2. Practice Mindful Parenting
   Take a step back and observe your child’s emotions without reacting immediately. Practicing mindfulness as a parent helps create a calm environment, reducing the likelihood of reinforcing anxious behavior.

3. Incorporate Cultural Connections
   For Māori whānau (families), embracing whakapapa and hauora (holistic well-being) can be particularly impactful. Engage your children in cultural practices or share family stories of overcoming challenges. This grounding helps children feel supported by their heritage and identity.

The Hauora Approach: Holistic Well-Being

Within te ao Māori, the concept of hauora emphasizes that emotional health is deeply connected with spiritual, physical, and mental well-being. Addressing anxiety involves more than just mental strategies; it’s about balancing all aspects of a child’s life. This might include encouraging outdoor play, connecting with extended family, or engaging in cultural traditions that reinforce a child’s identity and self-worth.

Final Thoughts

Helping children manage anxiety is an ongoing process, and each family’s approach may look a little different. By blending modern research with holistic cultural practices, parents can create a nurturing and balanced environment that supports children’s emotional growth.

Catch More Insights on Arrow FM

For more in-depth discussions like this one, tune in to HELP on Arrow FM 92.7 every Friday at 5 PM. You can also catch up on previous episodes on the Arrow FM website for more parenting tips and family support ideas.

References

1. Albano, A. M. & Silverman, W. K. (2009). Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule for Children (ADIS-IV): Parent Interview Schedule. Oxford University Press.

   • Dr. Anne Marie Albano is a respected researcher in childhood anxiety. Her work on treatment protocols and parental influence provides valuable insight into helping children manage anxiety.

2. Bögels, S. M. & Restifo, K. (2014). Mindful Parenting: A Guide for Mental Health Practitioners. Springer Science & Business Media.

   • Dr. Susan Bögels has conducted research on mindful parenting, which explores how parents’ emotional regulation can significantly impact children’s anxiety levels.

3. Durie, M. (1994). Whaiora: Māori Health Development. Oxford University Press.

   • Sir Mason Durie’s book provides an overview of hauora (holistic well-being) within te ao Māori, covering physical, mental, spiritual, and family health and its application in well-being practices.

4. Pere, R. R. (1991). Te Wheke: A Celebration of Infinite Wisdom. Ao Ako Global Learning New Zealand Ltd.

   • Rose Pere’s work emphasizes whakapapa (ancestral connections) and whānau ora (family well-being), highlighting the importance of cultural identity in health.

5. Child Mind Institute. (n.d.). Helping Kids with Anxiety: What Parents Can Do to Help Their Kids Face Anxiety and Feel Calmer. Retrieved from https://childmind.org/article/what-to-do-and-what-not-to-do-when-children-are-anxious/

   • This article provides practical tips for managing childhood anxiety, including how parents can foster resilience without reinforcing anxious behaviors.

6. Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand. (n.d.). Manaaki Tamariki: Supporting Young People’s Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/

   • This resource offers information specific to New Zealand, focusing on youth mental health support and including guidance on using te ao Māori principles in mental well-being.