03/02/2026
How can you help your child overcome Automatic Negative Thoughts (ANTs)? 🐜 According to the National Science Foundation, 80% of our thoughts are negative and 95% are repetitive. So when your child says, “I always mess things up” or “I’m not as cool as them,” it may feel true to them, but that doesn’t make it a fact.
Here’s how you can support them:
1️⃣ Catch the ANT!
Bring awareness to the thought. Talk about what it sounds like. When kids can name the thought, they create space from it.
2️⃣ Fact or ANT?
Teach the difference. A fact is objective and can be proven true. An ANT is a thought or interpretation that isn’t necessarily true, even if it feels real.
3️⃣ Don’t automatically believe it.
If it’s not a fact, they don’t have to accept it as truth. Help them look for other possible explanations.
4️⃣ Use self-regulation tools.
Strong emotions can make ANTs louder. Simple breathing exercises, movement, or a quick body scan can calm the mind and body so clearer thinking can return.
What’s one ANT your child struggles with most?