Wellbeing @ MPS
Understanding and Supporting Children with Anxiety
It's natural for children to feel worried or nervous from time to time—especially in new, unfamiliar, or challenging situations. However, when those worries feel too big or happen often, they might be signs of anxiety.
Anxiety can look different in every child. It might show up as:
- Complaining of tummy aches or headaches
- Avoiding school or social situations
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Constantly seeking reassurance (“Will you pick me up on time?”)
- Disregulation or shutdowns when things feel overwhelming
The good news? Anxiety is manageable, and with support from adults, children can learn to face their worries with confidence.
What Helps?
1. Name and Normalize the Feeling
Saying “You seem a bit worried—want to talk about it?” helps children feel understood. Let them know anxiety is a normal part of being human, especially when we’re learning or trying something new.
2. Teach Calming Strategies
Try these simple tools to help settle worried minds:
- Belly Breathing: Breathe in through the nose for 4 counts, out through the mouth for 6.
- 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding: Name 5 things you see, 4 you can touch, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, and 1 you taste.
Worry Time: Set aside 10 minutes a day to let your child talk or draw about their worries. Then move on to something calming or fun.
3. Avoid Avoiding
It’s tempting to remove what’s causing anxiety—but this can make it grow. Instead, support your child to face their fears in small, manageable steps. For example, if your child is anxious about speaking in class, practise at home together first, then celebrate each small win.
4. Encourage Brave Thinking
Help your child shift from “What if something goes wrong?” to “What if it goes okay?” Try saying:
- “It’s okay to be nervous, and I know you can get through this.”
“You’ve done hard things before—remember when…”
5. Be the Calm in the Storm
Your child’s nervous system will take cues from yours. By staying calm and steady (even when they're not), you teach them: “I can feel big feelings and still be okay.”
When to Reach Out
If your child’s anxiety is affecting their school day, friendships, or wellbeing, you’re not alone. Please don’t hesitate to contact the Wellbeing Team—we’re here to help. You might also like to explore helpful resources like the Brave program, some of the Triple P programs, or speak with your GP for further support.
Margarita and Ady
MPS Wellbeing Team