A worry jar for anxiety is a concept where kids write down their worries and place them inside the jar. It can be an actual jar (a glass or plastic jar) or a piece of paper with an image of a jar.
The Worry Jar worksheet helps kids temporarily release their worries, which provides a moment for relief and self-reflection. To use it, all they need to do is choose a specific time of the day to "worry" and spend 10-15 minutes writing down all their concerns in the jar, no matter how small they are.
By filling out this worry jar, they can be more aware of thoughts that are making them anxious and eliminate them so they can focus on things that matter more. Following the activity, parents and teachers can guide kids in crafting beaded bracelets that symbolize their worries, and encourage them to choose vibrant colors representing hope and resilience. For instance, using blue beads for calmness and yellow for optimism can convey the intentional release of burdens.
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Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of anxiety worksheets and handouts.
References:
- DeMarni Cromer, L., Pangelinan, B. A., & Buck, T. R. (2022). Case study of cognitive behavioral therapy for nightmares in children with and without trauma history. Clinical Case Studies, 21(5), 377-395. https://doi.org/10.1177/15346501221081122
- Vredevelt, P. (2012). Letting go of worry and anxiety. Multnomah.
