What is Anxiety?
Is anxiety any different for a child than for an adult? What could a child possibly be feeling anxious about? They’re a kid, after all!
Well, kids have plenty of reasons to feel anxious—from their social lives to school, family dynamics, and even hormonal changes. The anxiety is real, and your support could mean the difference between forward motion and a potentially dangerous halt in growth.
According to the CDC, an estimated 10% – 25% of children struggle with anxiety at some point in their development.
How can you, as a parent, family member, educator, or friend, help them navigate healthy habits and develop positive coping skills through overwhelming emotions?
Here are seven ways to be a pillar in the life of an anxious child.
1. Pay Attention!
There is no more valuable currency you can give than your attention. Recognizing shifts in mood, body language, and symptoms of anxiety is key.
Is your child fidgety? Complaining of stomach aches? Frequently feeling unwell? Are they quick to shed tears or overly clingy? These could be signs of anxiety.
By paying attention, you help your child feel seen, safe, and understood.
2. Identify Triggers!
Once we recognize signs of anxiety, we can work with our child to identify what brought those feelings on in the first place. This opens up communication and helps a child reclaim their sense of control.
Did they seem anxious when talking about a school subject? Did a song on the radio bring back a difficult memory? Identifying triggers allows us to either avoid them or help our child process them in a healthy way.
3. Build That Toolbox!
When you feel anxious, what do you do? Do you check in with yourself—are you hungry, tired, or uncomfortable? Are you overwhelmed, frustrated, or hurt?
Without realizing it, we tend to self-soothe in small ways, such as:
✅ Taking deep breaths
✅ Sitting quietly for a moment
✅ Reading a book
✅ Going for a short walk
Children benefit from the same skills! Be the example—show them how to regulate their emotions:
🎨 Color or draw
🧩 Build with LEGOs
🤗 Give yourself a tight hug
🛁 Take a warm bath
💦 Splash cool water on your face
Simple, calming techniques like these empower children to manage their emotions in real time.
4. Create Healthy Daily Habits!
And remember—consistency is key.
Children thrive on routine. A structured daily schedule that includes:
- Healthy snacks & balanced meals
- A set bedtime
- Hygiene routines
- Homework time
- Time for play and relaxation
…helps children build confidence and resilience. Knowing what to expect each day gives them a sense of stability and control.
5. Empower That Kiddo!
We all have choices—what a relief!
Reminding a child of their choices gives them an empowered perspective:
👉 “You can eat breakfast now, or pack it for snack time when you’re hungry.”
👉 “Would you like to read for 15 minutes or take a shower with music on?”
These small choices allow children to advocate for their own needs and build self-confidence.
6. Encourage and Cheer! (Even When It’s Scary)
Let your child know that even when they’re afraid or unsure, they CAN do their best!
Not all of life is easy. Trying new things can make anyone anxious, but sometimes, we must move through fear and be our own champion. This is much easier when we feel loved and supported.
A heartfelt “You got this! I’m here for you.” can make all the difference.
7. Seek Help!
You’re not alone, and neither is your child.
Consider professional support options like:
✔️ 1:1 counseling
✔️ Family therapy
✔️ A teen support group
✔️ Age-specific church or community activities
These can all provide children with the tools, resilience, and self-confidence they need to navigate anxiety in a healthy way.
You’ve Got This—And We’re Here for You!
Anxiety doesn’t have to hold your child back. With love, attention, and the right tools, they can thrive.
Your friends at Living and Balance Wellness Center
