Understanding Anxiety in Kids: What Parents Should Know

Written By Adi Soffer

It’s normal for kids to feel scared sometimes — fear of the dark, worry before a test, or nerves on the first day of school. But when anxiety starts to interfere with everyday life, it can be confusing, frustrating, and heartbreaking for parents to watch.

So how can you tell the difference between typical worries and something more?

Signs of Anxiety in Kids

Anxiety in children doesn’t always look like fear. It can show up as:

  • Avoidance (refusing school, activities, or being alone)

  • Physical complaints (headaches, stomachaches, fatigue)

  • Irritability or meltdowns (especially in younger kids)

  • Reassurance-seeking (“Will you be there the whole time?” “What if I mess up?”)

  • Sleep struggles or constant worry before bed

Sometimes kids can’t explain what they’re feeling — they just know something feels “off” or overwhelming. And as a parent, it can feel impossible to know whether to push, comfort, or step back.

What Causes Anxiety?

Anxiety is shaped by a mix of temperament, environment, genetics, and life experiences. It’s no one’s fault. Some kids are naturally more sensitive or cautious. Others may have had early experiences that made them feel unsafe or uncertain.

The good news? Anxiety is highly treatable — and kids can learn tools to manage it with the right support.

How Therapy Can Help

In therapy, I help children:

  • Understand and name their feelings

  • Learn calming strategies and coping tools

  • Face their fears in small, manageable steps (this is a core part of CBT and ERP for anxiety and OCD)

  • Build confidence and emotional resilience

But we don’t stop there. Parents play a key role — and I work closely with you to understand what your child needs, and how your responses can support growth without feeding the anxiety.

In some cases, I use the SPACE model (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) — a parent-based approach that helps shift the dynamic, especially when kids are resistant to therapy or younger.

Final Thoughts

If your child is struggling with anxiety, you’re not alone — and there is help. Therapy is not about “fixing” your child. It’s about helping them (and you) feel more confident, connected, and capable of facing life’s challenges.

Want to learn more or see if therapy might be the right fit for your family? 

Adi Soffer
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