Many children today experience some level of anxiety with every day life. However, some youth need some extra mindfulness tools in their toolbox to handle uncomfortable or overwhelming situations. Read on for an exclusive Anxiety In Teens interview with Author Annette Rivlin-Gutman on discussing her 2nd debut children’s mental health book, Just Breathe:
AiT: Tell us about Just Breathe and why it’s important for youth to learn about breathing and mindfulness strategies?
ARG: Just Breathe is a picture book for any child who feels anxious or worried when facing everyday life circumstances such as going to a new school, taking a test, having an argument with a friend or trying out for a sports team. We all can become nervous or irritable when we experience situations that make us feel uncomfortable. The more we are aware of our feelings, the more we are able to make changes, if we wish to. When we learn to take a moment to breathe deeply and be mindful and accepting of how we feel, we are able to manage such challenges with confidence and inner calm.
AiT: What motivated you to write this children’s book?
ARG: As a former special educator, current certified yoga instructor, and mom of two, I realized the significance in teaching children at a young age how to breathe and calm themselves. They can grow up using their breath and being mindful and have the skills in place each time life brings them challenges. I wish I learned how to breathe properly and gained the ability to calm my nervous system when I was young. I hope teachers, parents, and others working with children will find “Just Breathe” to be a valuable resource in helping children to build self-confidence and the ability to know they can find their own inner calm when they want or need to.
AiT: What strategies would you recommend to parents if they find they have a child dealing with high anxiety?
ARG: If a parent is dealing with a child who has high anxiety, I believe it is helpful to have many tools in place that a child can independently use when faced with a high anxiety situation. One valuable tool is knowing how to breathe deeply but there are others, as well, like finding a calm and safe place to slow down and manage the feelings of worry and anxiety or acknowledging the feelings no matter how uncomfortable they are. Though this may be more advanced for some children, meditating on a word that brings them comfort can also create serenity. I think it is most significant for a child to know they are supported and loved even when they feel out of control.
Annette Rivlin-Gutman is a passionate, award-winning writer and certified yoga instructor. A mother of two children, Annette drew upon her professional and personal experiences to write both of her children’s books, “Mommy Has to Stay in Bed” and “Just Breathe”. She is also a former teacher and seasoned video producer with a strong background in educational and children’s programming, including work with PBS, Mr. Rogers, and “Sesame Street”. “Just Breathe” can be purchased on Amazon and additional retail channels worldwide.