Starve that anxiety gremlin!

SNAP’s specialist library, based at The SNAP Centre, contains a variety of books, easy reference information sheets and DVDs, that are free to borrow over a four week loan period. The extensive range of resources are available to anyone concerned with additional needs and disability. SNAP’s Info & Admin Assistant, Alex, shares one of her favourite reads, Starving The Anxiety Gremlin by Kate Collins-Donnelly (two versions – 5-9 years and 10+).

“Both versions of the book are a relatively easy read and aimed at children, with the latest book aimed at 5–9-year-olds being more child friendly including more drawings and explaining anxiety through cartoon type character drawings. At the beginning of the book aimed at children aged 10+, Kate explains what anxiety is, and how it can affect the individual physically or cognitively and how to manage it. The examples included are anxiety disorder, panic attacks, different phobias, health anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and separation anxiety. Anxiety often comes alongside some children’s additional needs. Towards the end of the book there are lots of activities for the individual to do (boxes to draw in, word searches, crosswords, exercises, and an anxiety diary). These tasks could be done alongside an adult or by themselves and the adult could read afterwards so could be a way for the individual to express their feelings without directly opening up. I love this book for this time of year because it’s so helpful for children who might be feeling anxious about going back to or starting a new school”.