Help children identify how separation anxiety makes them feel in this mindful cut and stick activity.

Directions: We’ve included 12 ways separation anxiety can make us feel – from tummy aches to tears, cut out and stick to our boy or girl template. We’ve also included some blank cards in case there are some symptoms we haven’t covered. After your child has completed this, ask them to pick the four symptoms that affect them the most and come up with a plan together on how to tackle each one.

Key features and benefits:

• Includes a boy and girl template so your child can choose which one they’d like to use.
• Develops fine motor skills – ask your child to cut out the symptoms and stick them to the template.
• Develops self awareness – help children to feel in control by letting them identify their own feelings and symptoms.
• Calming and mindful – the process of cutting and sticking is a great distraction technique that brings present-mindedness and calm.
• Develops coping skills – identifying how anxiety makes our bodies feel can help us to develop skills to manage those feelings when they appear.
• Prompt discussion and openness – using this activity shows your child that you are open to communicating and discussing how they feel in a supportive environment, helping them learn that they can come to you when they feel sad or upset.