Performance Anxiety in Kids: How to Overcome It?

Performance anxiety is a common problem that kids face when they have to do something in front of other people. This can include anything from giving a presentation in school to playing a sports game. It might be perfectly normal to feel anxious in new situations. However, some children seem to find it more challenging to overcome anxiety. While some are able to battle it on their own, others need a little help and encouragement. In this blog post, we will discuss how you can help your kid overcome performance anxiety and become more confident in themselves. Continue reading for some valuable tips and tricks!

What is performance anxiety? 

Performance anxiety or stage fright is the feeling of nervousness or apprehension that occurs when a person is faced with an upcoming performance. It is perfectly normal to feel some degree of anxiety before doing something new or challenging. However, when this feeling becomes overwhelming and prevents a person from being able to do their best, it can become an issue. In kids,  performance anxiety is often seen in situations such as taking a test, giving a presentation, or during a competition.

How can you help your kid overcome performance anxiety? 

There are several things that you can do to help your kid overcome performance anxiety. One of the most important things is to provide a safe space for them to talk about their feelings. This will help them to identify and understand what is making them anxious. Once they know what their triggers are, they can start to work on overcoming them. Additionally, you can help your child by teaching them some relaxation techniques that they can use before a performance. This could include deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation. Finally, it is important to provide support and encouragement to your child. Let them know that you believe in them and that they can do it.

What can PE teachers do to encourage kids to overcome performance anxiety? 

PE teachers play an important role in encouraging kids to be more active. However, when it comes to performance anxiety,  they can also help by providing a supportive and positive environment. They should give kids the opportunity to practice in front of others so that they can get used to the feeling of being observed.  Additionally, PE teachers can give feedback that is focused on the child’s effort rather than their ability. This will help kids to feel more confident in themselves. Finally, PE teachers can provide opportunities for kids to try new things and experiment with different activities. This will help them to find something that they enjoy and are good at.

Your Child's Anxiety: When to Worry, When to Relax – Cleveland Clinic

What are some activities for kids with performance anxiety?  

There is a number of activities that can help kids overcome performance anxiety and give their best. 

  • Going to a fun park. This can help because it provides an opportunity for kids to try new things in a safe and entertaining environment. They will be able to explore their boundaries, cross complex obstacle courses, and enjoy jumping and running. 
  • Breathing practices. This can help because it will teach kids how to control their breathing, which is a key element of relaxation and essential for doing sports, yoga, meditation. Apart from overcoming anxiety, it can also be beneficial for their wellbeing. 
  • Singing in a choir.  This can help because it provides a supportive and fun environment for kids to express themselves. They will be able to work on their breathing, pitch, and team spirit while being surrounded by others who are doing the same thing. 
  • Acting classes.  This can help because it allows kids to explore their creative side and build confidence. They will be able to experiment with different characters and learn how to project their voice and express themselves in new ways. 
  • Sports teams. This can help because it gives kids a chance to be part of a group and work towards a common goal. They will learn about teamwork, communication, and how to handle winning and losing. Additionally, they will get regular exercise, which is important for their physical and mental health. 

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