Losing a parent is one of the most heart-breaking experiences a child can go through. When a child is grieving, they often don’t have the words to explain what they’re feeling, but their bodies and behaviours tell the story. Trouble sleeping. Tummy aches. Sudden outbursts. Withdrawal. These are all common signs of anxiety, worry, and sadness in children trying to process grief.

We recently heard from a parent who shared the emotional story of their children’s journey after losing their dad, and how a Calmness Crew plushie became an unexpected source of comfort during their darkest moments.

It’s easy to overlook how much the little things shape the way children feel about themselves. Among the simplest yet most powerful tools we can offer them is the habit of using positive affirmations.

Affirmations are short, uplifting phrases that children repeat to themselves, helping them build a strong and healthy inner voice. Phrases like “I am brave,” “I am calm,” or “I am kind” might seem small, but the effect they can have on a child’s self-belief and resilience is anything but.

When a child starts to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or on the verge of a panic attack, one of the most effective things they can do is breathe—but not just any breathing. Box breathing, also known as square breathing, is a simple yet powerful technique backed by science and recommended by psychologists, pediatricians, and educators for helping young people regulate their emotions and calm their nervous systems.

🌟 A-Z Tips to Boost Your Wellbeing (Especially for Young People)

🩵 Let’s be real—life can feel a lot sometimes. Whether it’s school, friendships, family, social media, or just trying to figure things out, there’s so much being thrown at young people every day.

📒 That’s why I created something simple, supportive, and completely free: an A–Z guide full of daily tips to help young people feel better, think better, and live well.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, and daily pressures. But what if there was a simple, effective, and completely free way to improve your mental wellbeing? Journaling is a powerful tool that helps process emotions, reduce stress, and boost clarity. And the best part? You can start today with my free downloadable daily journal!