More Than Reality with Adam and Danielle Busby Episode 39: Helping Our Anxious Child Break Free: Parker’s Journey Release Date: June 26, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 39 of "More Than Reality," hosts Adam and Danielle Busby delve deep into their personal journey of supporting their daughter Parker as she navigates anxiety. This episode provides an intimate look into the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with anxiety within a large family of eight, including five groundbreaking all-female quintuplets.
Identifying Anxiety in Parker
Timestamp: 00:45 – 03:03
Adam opens the discussion by addressing the growing curiosity from their audience about Parker's anxiety. He recalls how, from a very young age, Parker exhibited signs of anxiety that set her apart from her siblings.
Adam Busby: "Whenever Parker was like little, that kid was glued to my side… she was just looking at me and just smiling" (00:45).
Danielle elaborates on Parker's early behaviors, emphasizing that while Parker was always affectionate and connected, there were subtle signs indicating her struggle with anxiety.
Daily Life and Managing Anxiety
Timestamp: 03:03 – 12:39
The conversation shifts to their daily routines and how they manage the chaos of a large household while addressing Parker’s needs. They discuss the importance of creating a supportive environment, highlighting how even everyday activities like using face masks can be approached thoughtfully to avoid exacerbating anxiety.
Danielle shares her interest in developing a product line tailored to the needs of preteens, reflecting their commitment to addressing their children’s well-being.
Danielle Busby: "We gotta be cautious about what we actually are letting them put on their face because they don't need it" (02:12).
Seeking Professional Help
Timestamp: 15:06 – 36:43
Adam and Danielle discuss their proactive approach in seeking professional help for Parker. They emphasize the importance of occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy in understanding and managing Parker’s anxiety. The hosts recount how these sessions provided them with valuable tools to support Parker effectively.
Danielle highlights the significance of being present and involved, ensuring that Parker feels heard and understood.
Danielle Busby: "We really start to see… understanding is being present with that child" (27:08).
Practical Strategies and Tools
Timestamp: 36:43 – 51:25
The Busbys share specific strategies they implemented to help Parker cope with anxiety. These include:
-
Preparation and Predictability: Preparing Parker for upcoming events by discussing what to expect, thereby reducing uncertainty and anxiety.
Adam Busby: "So we would just tell her like, okay, well, tomorrow we're going to go to the zoo" (37:01).
-
Encouraging Verbalization: Allowing Parker to make small decisions, such as choosing her outfit or what to drink, to build her confidence and sense of control.
Danielle Busby: "Parker, what shoes do you want to wear to the zoo?" (39:47).
-
Positive Reinforcement: Consistently praising Parker for her efforts, regardless of the outcome, to reinforce her self-worth and reduce performance anxiety.
Danielle Busby: "Good job, Parker. I'm proud of you for speaking up" (40:08).
Recommended Resources
Timestamp: 42:41 – 44:14
Adam introduces listeners to Joshua and Kristi Straub, psychologists and friends who have significantly influenced their approach to parenting. He recommends their series of children's books, "What Am I Feeling?" and "What Do I Do With Worry?" These resources are designed to help children articulate and manage their emotions effectively.
Adam Busby: "These are great books to pick up" (44:14).
Empowering Children
Timestamp: 44:14 – 51:25
Danielle recounts how engaging Parker in activities she enjoys, such as dance, significantly boosted her confidence and alleviated anxiety. They emphasize the importance of allowing children to pursue their interests without the pressure of perfection.
Danielle Busby: "It's not about us achieving the top… just how it makes you feel" (46:58).
Adam adds that reinforcing unconditional love and acceptance plays a crucial role in building Parker’s self-esteem.
Adam Busby: "There's nothing that you can do to make me love you any less" (49:02).
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Timestamp: 52:00 – End
The episode wraps up with Adam and Danielle reflecting on their imperfect but earnest efforts to support Parker. They emphasize that while they may not have all the answers, their journey offers valuable insights and practical tips for other parents facing similar challenges.
Danielle Busby: "These are the things that worked for us" (52:09).
Adam encourages listeners to adopt and adapt the strategies discussed, fostering an environment where anxious children can thrive.
Key Takeaways
- Early Identification: Recognizing signs of anxiety in children is crucial for timely intervention.
- Professional Support: Engaging with therapists and utilizing recommended resources can provide essential tools for managing anxiety.
- Consistent Strategies: Preparation, encouraging verbalization, and positive reinforcement are effective in supporting anxious children.
- Empowerment: Allowing children to make small decisions and pursue their interests builds confidence and reduces anxiety.
- Unconditional Love: Reinforcing that love is not contingent on performance helps children feel secure and valued.
Notable Quotes
- "Whenever Parker was like little… she was just looking at me and just smiling." — Adam Busby (00:45)
- "We gotta be cautious about what we actually are letting them put on their face because they don't need it." — Danielle Busby (02:12)
- "Good job, Parker. I'm proud of you for speaking up." — Danielle Busby (40:08)
- "There's nothing that you can do to make me love you any less." — Adam Busby (49:02)
Recommendations
- Books by Joshua and Kristi Straub: "What Am I Feeling?" and "What Do I Do With Worry?"
- Occupational Therapy: Engage with professionals to gain tailored strategies for managing child anxiety.
- Positive Reinforcement: Consistently acknowledge and praise your child’s efforts to build self-esteem.
This episode serves as a heartfelt guide for parents navigating the complexities of raising anxious children, offering real-world solutions grounded in personal experience.