Understanding Anxiety in Kids

How Parents Can Offer Steady Support

By Lanara Tomasetti

It’s 8:15 a.m. and your child is in tears again. Their stomach hurts. They don’t want

to go to school. You’ve reassured them that everything will be okay, but the worry

doesn’t seem to fade. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

Childhood anxiety is more common than many parents realise, and it’s not a

reflection of poor parenting. Anxiety is the body’s built-in alarm system. It’s designed to protect us from danger. But sometimes that alarm goes off even when a situation isn’t truly threatening. For children, that surge of fear can feel very real and overwhelming.

Anxiety may show up as excessive worrying, irritability, trouble sleeping, avoidance of activities, ‘clinging’ to trusted adults or frequent physical complaints like headaches and stomach aches. When these patterns begin interfering with daily life, it’s a signal that your child may need extra support.

So how can you help?

First, stay calm and steady. Children often take emotional cues from the adults

around them. When you respond with patience rather than alarm, you communicate safety.

Second, validate feelings without reinforcing fear. Instead of saying, “There’s nothing to worry about,” try, “I can see this feels scary. Let’s work through it together.” Feeling understood reduces distress.

Third, encourage small steps toward bravery. Avoidance can strengthen anxiety over time. With gentle guidance, help your child face fears gradually and celebrate progress.

For example, if your child is struggling with school refusal, the goal doesn’t

have to be a full day right away. Driving to the school and walking them to the office doors may be the first victory. Getting through those doors can be a meaningful achievement worth recognising.

If anxiety continues to disrupt daily life, consider speaking with your paediatrician or a therapist.

With understanding and steady support, children can learn to manage anxiety, and grow more resilient in the process.