Children (5–7) with FND
A gentle, safe place for young children and the adults who care for them
Welcome
This page is for young children whose bodies sometimes feel wobbly, shaky, tired, or hard to control. It is also for parents, caregivers, and loved ones who want to understand what their child is experiencing and how to support them gently. Everything here is calm, simple, and made with care. Nothing is scary. Nothing is rushed. And nothing is your child’s fault.
Sometimes the brain and the body don’t talk to each other the way they usually do.
The brain is still smart. The body is still strong. But the messages between them can get a little mixed up.
It can feel like:
- Legs that feel wobbly
- Hands that shake
- Feeling stuck for a moment
- Words that are hard to say
- Feeling very tired
- Headaches or tummy aches
These feelings are real. Your child is not pretending. They are not doing anything wrong.
Our programs for young children are designed to feel safe, calm, and predictable.
We use:
- Simple words
- Short activities
- Gentle routines
- Patient, caring adults
Children are always allowed to:
- Sit quietly or join
- Hold a toy or colour
- Take breaks when needed
- Keep their camera on or off
There is never any pressure to talk or move.
Each session follows the same gentle rhythm so children know what to expect.
A typical group includes:
- A friendly hello
- A calm breathing moment
- A very short check-in
- A simple activity
- A soft goodbye
Everything moves slowly and kindly.
Young children need coping tools that feel safe, playful, and easy to understand. All coping activities for this age group are included in the official HHFFND Coping Menus for Ages 5–7. These tools can help children feel calmer in their bodies without pressure or expectations.
FND in young children is real.
Your child’s symptoms are not imagined and are not caused by behaviour or choices.
Children with FND need patience, consistency, and emotional safety.
Support is available for you, too., exaggerated, or caused by poor behaviour.
If your child’s symptoms suddenly change, or if they seem frightened or confused, clear and calm guidance is available to help you know what to do. Please look at our Safety & Crisis Information page.
You Are Not Alone
Every child’s body tells its story in its own way. Sometimes that story is quiet, and sometimes it is confusing or hard to understand, and that is okay. Here, your child is listened to, believed, and supported with patience, kindness, and care.