Simple ways to help your child with their anxiety issues →
If you’ve ever felt like your child worries more than they should, or gets overwhelmed by small setbacks, you’re not alone. Today’s children are growing up in a world full of pressure: school demands, social media, the news, even our own stress. It's no wonder anxiety is showing up more in younger children.
However we can teach them how to be resilient,
What Does Anxiety Look Like in Young Children?
Children often don’t say “I’m anxious”, instead, it shows up in their behaviour:
They might refuse to go to school.
They complain of tummy aches with no medical cause.
They get tearful or angry when a routine changes.
They say things like, “I can’t do it” or “Everyone’s better than me.”
They become silent
Sound familiar? These are all ways that anxiety can appear in children, especially in the early years and primary school.
So, What Can Parents Do Right Now?
1. Name the Feeling
Young children often feel better just from knowing what they’re feeling has a name.
Instead of saying: “Don’t worry — it’s nothing.”
Try: “It sounds like you’re feeling a bit nervous. That’s okay — we all feel like that sometimes.”
This helps them recognize and label emotions, which is the first step in managing them.
2. Model 'Brave Behaviour'
Children learn most from what they see. If they watch you facing challenges (even small ones) with a steady attitude, they start to believe they can do the same.
For example:
“I’ve got a big presentation at work today and I feel nervous, but I’ve prepared, and I’m going to try my best.”
This shows that being nervous is normal, and that bravery means doing things even when we feel a bit scared. Show them it’s all about taking control of those nervous feelings.
3. Praise the Process, Not Just the Outcome
Instead of focusing on whether something was done perfectly, celebrate the effort.
For example:
“I saw you kept trying with that tricky puzzle. That was brilliant persistence!”
This builds a growth mindset, helping children see setbacks as part of learning, not signs of failure.
4. Small actions count
Encourage small acts of courage every day. Start with achievable steps, like putting their hand up in class, or trying a new food and celebrate them. Multiple small achievements that are praised make a big difference!
Make a “Brave Jar” at home: every time your child does something that feels brave, they get to put a marble or token in the jar. Watch it grow!
5. Create Calm Routines
Predictable routines help anxious children feel safe. Try keeping mornings calm and consistent, breakfast, brushing teeth, packing bags in the same order. Same organized routine for nigh time.
6. Watch Your Own Anxiety
Children are emotional sponges. If you’re often saying, “I’m so stressed,” or showing panic in tough situations, they will absorb that.
Take moments to breathe, pause, and model calm responses even when you’re faking it a bit. You’re teaching emotional regulation without saying a word. Try to avoid words about yourself like stress, anxious, frightened ,weak, vulnerable.
When Should You Seek Help?
If your child’s anxiety is stopping them from taking part in everyday life, refusing school regularly, withdrawing from friends, or having frequent meltdowns, it might be time to talk to the teacher, your GP, school councillor or a child therapist.
Final Thought: Bravery Grows Slowly — But It Grows
Raising a resilient child doesn’t mean they’ll never struggle. It means they’ll know how to bounce back, try again, and keep going. That’s the greatest gift we can give them. It’s called resilience.
You don’t need to have all the answers. Let them see that we are not all perfect. Just walk alongside them, name the feelings, and keep reminding them: “You’ve got this, and I’ve got you.”
“It’s not whether you get knocked down. It’s whether you get up.”