Anxiety in Children: Common Fears Across Developmental Stages

Understanding what anxiety looks like in children can sometimes be like trying to read the clouds—one minute they seem calm, and the next, there’s a storm brewing. Child anxiety doesn’t always present as an adult might envision. It’s often masked by behaviour that might seem confusing, like stubbornness or tantrums. Anxiety in children can manifest in various ways, such as:

Physical Symptoms: This can include stomachaches, headaches, or even muscle tension. It's astonishing how our bodies react to emotions, isn't it?

Behavioural Changes: Kids might avoid certain activities or situations that make them anxious. They could also become more clingy with parents or caregivers.

Emotional Outbursts: These could be more frequent and seem out of proportion to the situation causing them.

Imagine a child who suddenly doesn't want to go to school. They might say their tummy hurts or insist that there's a monster under their bed—a classic case of anxiety manifesting in children.

 

What is normal according to developmental age

Every child is unique, just like every stage of development comes with its own set of challenges and fears. Let’s explore what might be typical for different ages:

Toddlers (Ages 1-3)

At this age, separation anxiety is quite common. It’s natural for toddlers to feel anxious when their parents leave. Imagine your toddler clinging to your leg, a very familiar sight during daycare drop-offs!

Preschoolers (Ages 3-5)

Fear of the dark or imaginary creatures like monsters can loom large. You might see your little one expressing hesitations around bedtime.

School-Age Children (Ages 6-12)

School-age children might worry about real-world challenges such as making friends, academic performance, or family issues. You can think of it as them starting to explore the big world outside their home bubble.

Teenagers (Ages 13+)

Teenagers can experience more complex forms of anxiety related to identity, social status, and expectations. These years might feel like running a gauntlet of social pressures and academic stress.

Understanding these age-specific fears can help parents remain empathetic and supportive.

 

 

What parents can do

So, what’s a parent to do in the face of their child's anxiety? It can feel overwhelming, but there are ways to help:

Listen Actively: Encourage your child to talk about their feelings. Create a safe space where they feel heard.

Validate Their Feelings: Assure them that it’s okay to feel nervous or worried. It’s like saying, “Your feelings are important to me.”

Teach Coping Skills: Deep breathing or visualisation exercises can help children manage anxious thoughts.

Maintain Routines: A predictable routine provides a sense of security for a child.

Remember, being patient and understanding goes a long way. Think of yourself as being a calm harbour in their emotional storm.

 

 

How schools help

Schools play a significant role in a child’s life and can be pivotal in managing anxiety:

Counselling Services: Many schools offer counseling services where children can talk to trained professionals.

Awareness Programs: Workshops and classes that teach kids about emotions and coping skills.

Supportive Environment: Teachers can provide a supportive and nurturing environment, recognising signs of anxiety and offering timely support.

Schools can act as a community, rallying around a child to ensure they feel safe and supported.

 

Answering common parent questions

As a parent, it’s natural to have questions about your child's anxiety. Here are some common ones:

How do I know if my child needs professional help?

If anxiety significantly interferes with daily activities like school, sleep, or socialising, it might be time to seek professional advice.

How long should anxiety in children last?

While it's normal for children to experience anxiety during certain stages, if it persists and impacts their daily life, consider consulting with a pediatrician or a child psychologist.

Can anxiety be prevented?

While completely preventing anxiety isn’t feasible, fostering an open, supportive environment can help children manage and express their feelings better.

 

Understanding and supporting children in their emotional journey is not just about addressing fears but about helping them build resilience, one developmental stage at a time.