Childhood Anxiety Isn’t a Whim—It’s a Warning Sign

When a child says their stomach hurts before school, cries when separating from their parents, or seems restless for no clear reason, they’re often told they’re exaggerating. That “it’s not a big deal,” that they “have to be brave,” or that “it will pass.” But what many adults don’t realize is that these symptoms may be signs of childhood anxiety.

And anxiety in children doesn’t look the same as in adults.

It hides in physical symptoms, irritability, withdrawal. It’s not a whim. It’s an alarm.

What does anxiety look like in a child?

Unlike adults, children often don’t know how to name what they’re feeling. That’s why anxiety shows up in unexpected ways: recurring aches with no medical cause, nightmares, excessive fear of separation, refusal to go to school, unexplained crying, trouble sleeping or eating.

The problem isn’t just the anxiety itself—but how often it’s ignored or misinterpreted as shyness, laziness, or manipulation. This only increases the child’s frustration, leaving them feeling misunderstood and without tools to calm themselves.

Childhood anxiety doesn’t go away on its own.

It needs to be seen, understood, and supported.

Contain, don’t correct

When a child shows signs of anxiety, what they need most is emotional safety. They need adults who help them name their feelings, who don’t minimize them, who teach them how to breathe, to calm down, to feel they’re not alone.

Containment doesn’t mean overprotection—it means teaching them to manage their inner world with kindness and real tools.

Early intervention makes a difference. In therapy, children learn to recognize their emotions, express their needs, and parents gain the tools to support them without guilt or overwhelm.

If your child is showing signs that worry you, listen. Anxiety is the body and mind’s way of asking for help.

You’re not alone—we’re here to help you understand and support your child so they can grow with emotional security and well-being.