Daily Practices That Help Kids Manage Stress

In an interview with The Educated Patient, licensed clinical psychologist Naomi Dambreville, Ph.D., and licensed clinical social worker Anita Solnit, both from Mount Sinai Hospital, emphasize that routines, structure and consistency are foundational for children’s emotional well-being and anxiety management. While life is inherently unpredictable, establishing predictable daily patterns — from morning wake-ups to after-school routines — gives children a sense of control and stability, reducing stress for both kids and parents. By creating clear expectations while allowing flexibility when needed, families can help children navigate life’s uncertainties more effectively.

Daily practice of coping strategies is another key pillar. Just as routines help children anticipate and manage daily tasks, regular practice of calming techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing, playful “lion’s roar” exercises or fun family-focused mindfulness activities, helps children learn to self-regulate in stressful moments. Integrating movement, creative play and sensory activities also supports emotional regulation, allowing children to release energy and cultivate calmness. Journaling, family discussions and check-ins that highlight positive daily experiences further nurture resilience and encourage perspective beyond anxiety or fear.

Dambreville and Solnit stress the importance of modeling healthy coping for children. Parents who openly acknowledge challenges, share how they manage stress and celebrate daily successes provide children with tangible examples of emotional regulation. This modeling, combined with supportive routines and practice, strengthens children’s ability to face challenges confidently.

The experts also highlight that anxiety manifests differently across cultures, families and individual experiences. Tools and strategies must be flexible and culturally sensitive, recognizing that families may rely on faith, prayer or other personalized coping mechanisms. The ultimate goal is not to eliminate anxiety entirely but to equip children — and their families — with practical, adaptable skills to manage it in ways that are realistic, supportive and sustainable.

By blending structure, consistent routines, coping skill practice, play, mindfulness and cultural awareness, families can create a supportive environment that helps children manage anxiety while fostering resilience, self-confidence and emotional intelligence.