Child Anxiety: When Worry Becomes More Than a Phase
It’s normal for children to worry sometimes. Whether it’s a fear of the dark, the first day of school, or a new babysitter, some anxiety is a healthy part of growing up. But what happens when worry takes over—when it starts to shape your child’s daily life, sleep, relationships, or sense of self?
As therapists who work closely with children and families, we’ve seen just how overwhelming this can be for both the child and the parent. You may be wondering: Is this just a phase—or is my child struggling with something deeper?
Let’s talk about what child anxiety can really look like, how to tell when it may need extra support, and what therapy can offer for children who feel stuck in a cycle of fear or worry.
When Everyday Worry Turns into Something More
Anxious thoughts in children don’t always show up the way you might expect. Some kids are vocal about their fears—others shut down or become avoidant. Some become extra clingy. Others get headaches, stomach aches, or meltdowns that seem out of proportion.
Here are a few signs that anxiety may be taking a bigger toll:
Avoiding school, social activities, or sleepovers due to fear or worry
Frequent physical complaints with no clear medical cause (like tummy aches or headaches)
Trouble falling or staying asleep, often due to anxious thoughts
Perfectionism, fear of making mistakes, or needing constant reassurance
Emotional outbursts that seem triggered by small events
Many parents we work with say, “They just don’t seem like themselves anymore.” And that’s an important cue—because when anxiety begins to interfere with how a child experiences their world, it’s more than just a phase.
Real-Life Stories from the Therapy Room
Liam, age 9, had always been a bit of a worrier, but after switching schools, his anxiety spiked. He started refusing to go to class, complaining of stomach aches, and crying every night before bed. Therapy helped him name the fears behind the behavior—and gave his parents tools to respond with calm and clarity, not just discipline.
Maya, age 7, didn’t talk much about her worries, but she often clung to her parents and panicked when routines changed. In play therapy, we explored her inner world in non-verbal ways—and helped her build confidence through small, achievable steps that made her feel more in control.
You can read more about how play therapy supports emotional growth in children here.
How Therapy Can Help an Anxious Child
Child therapy isn’t about “fixing” your child—it’s about helping them feel safe, understood, and equipped. Depending on your child’s needs, therapy may include:
Helping your child identify and talk about their worries in a safe space
Teaching calming strategies they can use when anxiety shows up
Supporting you as a parent with insight, tools, and practical guidance
Using play, art, or stories to explore emotions that are hard to verbalize
We also work with the family as a whole—because your support, attunement, and presence are powerful parts of your child’s healing. If you’re curious how this looks in practice, we’ve written more about attachment and child therapy here.
You’re Not Alone—and Neither Is Your Child
It’s heartbreaking to see your child in distress and not know how to help. But anxiety doesn’t have to take over your family’s life—and your child doesn’t have to carry their worries alone.
At Feel Your Way Therapy, we offer compassionate, evidence-based child therapy in Toronto to help anxious children build resilience, confidence, and calm.
Book a free 15-minute consultation with a therapist in Toronto and let’s take the next step together.
