How to Explain Anxiety to a Child: 5 Helpful Tips
Anxiety can be a difficult concept to grasp for anyone, especially kids. When a child feels anxious, they might not have the words to describe their feelings, or they might not understand why they feel the way they do. As a parent, teacher, or caregiver, it's important to help children understand anxiety in a way that is comforting and relatable. We’ve pulled together some ways to help explain anxiety to your child.
1. Keep it Simple
Begin by explaining that anxiety is a normal emotion that everyone feels from time to time. It's like when they feel scared or worried about something, like a big test at school or a thunderstorm. Anxiety is our body’s way of telling us that something might be wrong or that we need to be careful.
Use words and concepts that are appropriate for the child's age and understanding. For younger children, you might say, "Anxiety is like when you feel really scared or worried, even if there’s no real danger."
2. Explain the Physical Symptoms
Children often feel the physical effects of anxiety before they understand what’s happening emotionally. Explain that anxiety can make their heart beat faster, their stomach feel upset, or their muscles feel tense. You can say, “Sometimes, when we’re worried, our body gets ready to protect us. That’s why you might feel your heart beating fast or your tummy hurting.”
3. Normalise Their Feelings
Reassure your child that anxiety is something everyone experiences. Share a personal story about a time when you felt anxious and how you handled it. This helps them see that it’s okay to feel anxious and that they’re not alone.
Let them know that all emotions, including anxiety, are normal and okay. “It’s okay to feel worried sometimes. Everyone feels this way and it’s just a sign that your body is trying to protect you.”
4. Develop Coping Strategies
There are a range of strategies and techniques which can help children calm their bodies and minds. An easy idea includes taking long deep breaths together, imagining they’re blowing up a balloon or visualising being at a favourite place. What sounds can they hear and what can they say? For more ideas, have a look at our Kid’s Cards - Anxiety Set, which include include a variety of ideas utilising breathing, mindfulness and grounding techniques.
5. Encourage Open Communication
Create a safe space for them to talk about their feelings. Let them know it’s okay to tell you when they’re feeling anxious. Sometimes, children find it easier to express their feelings through drawing or playing. Encourage them to draw their feelings or play out their worries with toys.
Helping a child understand anxiety involves patience, empathy and clear communication. By explaining anxiety in simple terms, normalising their feelings and teaching coping techniques, you can empower your child to manage their anxiety, feel more in control, safe and supported.
If you would like more information on anxiety, take a look at our anxiety information page. If anxiety seems to be overwhelming your child or affecting their daily life, you may want to consider seeking professional advice.
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The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne. (2024). Anxiety - Primary Aged Children. https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/anxiety-primary-aged/
Lear, K. (2020). How to explain anxiety to kids. Childhood Counselling in Davdison. https://www.katielear.com/child-therapy-blog/2020/10/26/how-to-explain-anxiety-to-kids
