Reluctant to take risks. For example, they may avoid asking teachers for help or decide to stay home rather than go to the party. Avoid asking for directions or help. Avoid going to new places or trying new things.
Worry about many things — school, sports activities, things taking place far in the future, current events like war and school shootings, and what others think of them.
School refusal, social isolation from activities and people, and irritability for no apparent reason. Physical symptoms include headaches, stomachaches, fidgeting, trouble sleeping, nightmares, and night terrors.
Episodes every day for several months may require intervention and a diagnosis by a professional.
Step 2: Know the Approach
Schools
Typical Anxiety
Be sensitive to kids’ differences and avoid creating stressful situations
Help kids feel successful and reduce their worries
Identify adults who can provide emotional support
Communicate with parent/guardian
Have a quiet or calm area in the classroom that allows students to decompress
Have a visible schedule so students know what to expect
Anxiety Problem
Can hinder a child’s ability to focus and shift from one situation or task to another
Social situations like recess, field trips, and assemblies can also trigger anxiety
Common school supports specifically for anxiety disorders
Advance notice of upcoming transitions
Seating where your child is most comfortable
Extended time on tests
Tests are taken in a separate, quiet environment
A designated lunchtime buddy
Preferential grouping for field trips so a child is with a teacher or familiar people
A designated adult at school to seek help from when feeling anxious
Parents & Caregivers
Typical Anxiety
Take your child’s fears seriously, but express confidence in your child’s ability to manage them
Remind your child of past successes and strategies that worked in those situations
Brainstorm new strategies and practice them
Develop a backup plan. For instance, role-play scenarios if your child is anxious about attending a birthday party. Agree to an early pickup if your child isn’t having fun. Talk about other parties your child had fun at in the past
Try to avoid accidentally “rewarding” your child’s anxiety. For example, allowing your child to miss school or practice, substituting ice cream for going to a classmate’s party, or giving too much reassurance
Anxiety Problem
Talk openly with your child about anxiety in a supportive, nonjudgmental way. Seek your child’s perspective and share your own experiences
Get familiar with signs of anxiety in young kids, teens, and tweens. Take notes on what you see, and share your concerns with your child’s healthcare provider
If your child is being treated for anxiety, be supportive and patient as your child develops new coping strategies. Help practice new techniques learned in therapy
If your child has social anxiety, role-play social situations
Consider talking to a mental health professional to help you cope with the stress of having a child with anxiety
