How Can I Help My Child Manage Anxiety? A Parent’s Guide
Understanding Anxiety in Children
Anxiety is a natural emotional response to uncertainty or perceived danger. For some children, however, anxiety can become persistent and difficult to manage. According to the British Psychological Society (BPS), one in six children aged 5–16 in the UK now experiences mental health difficulties, with anxiety among the most common.
Signs of anxiety may include:
Frequent stomach aches or headaches
Avoidance of school or social situations
Irritability, withdrawal, or tearfulness
These behaviours may be dismissed as shyness or mood swings, but they often indicate underlying anxiety.
Reframing Worries: A Positive Approach
Rather than reassuring your child with phrases such as “Don’t worry,” try to acknowledge their emotions and offer collaborative problem-solving. For example:
“I understand you’re feeling worried. Let’s see what we can do together to help you feel better.”
“Everyone feels anxious sometimes. Let’s take it one step at a time.”
“What’s one thing we could do now that might help you feel more in control?”
This method, known as reframing, is rooted in psychoeducation, which teaches children how to recognise and regulate their emotions. For more guidance, see Anxiety: Healing Through Psychoeducation – BPS.
Evidence-Based Strategies to Try at Home
Mindful breathing: Slow, deep breathing can help your child calm their body’s stress response.
Cognitive restructuring: Support your child to challenge negative thoughts by examining the evidence and exploring alternative perspectives.
Gradual exposure: Help your child face situations they fear in small, manageable steps to reduce avoidance over time.
For further details on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) methods, refer to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Childhood Anxiety – NIH.
When to Seek Professional Help
If anxiety is affecting your child’s ability to learn, socialise, or enjoy everyday activities, it may be helpful to consult your GP or a qualified mental health professional. Therapies such as CBT can be highly effective in helping children develop practical coping strategies.
Top Tips for Parents
Acknowledge and validate your child’s feelings without judgement.
Introduce simple, daily calming techniques like breathing or journalling.
Avoid avoidance—encourage gradual re-engagement with feared situations.
How GTG Educate Can Help
GTG Educate offers high-quality, emotionally attuned tuition that supports anxious learners in a calm, structured environment. We understand how anxiety can impact academic confidence and are trained to use gentle reassurance, clear routines, and achievable targets to build both knowledge and self-belief.
