Laura Lynne Armstrong

The Worry Wind Laura Lynne Armstrong

Worry can be a helpful feeling. It can tell us when we need to take action in the face of danger. It can also let us know when we're having unhelpful thoughts that we can do something about. Worry is our built-in alarm bell, but it can get too big. When worry becomes too big, it can become distressing and it needs to be managed. Too much worry can prevent children from doing things that they want or need to do, and avoidance makes worry even bigger. This story talks about the "worry wind," using a visual representation of worry or fear. It teaches children how worry can be helpful and how to calm the worry wind when it becomes too strong. It offers creative strategies for children to cope with worry: Notice emotions, question thoughts, and take helpful actions.