Anxiety in Children: Understanding and Supporting Worried Minds

Anxiety is a normal human emotion that everyone experiences from time to time. However, for some children, feelings of anxiety can become excessive, persistent and overwhelming. As caring adults, it’s important we understand the signs of anxiety in kids and how we can provide meaningful support. This article explores the causes, symptoms and best strategies for supporting children struggling with anxiety.

What Causes Anxiety in Children?

There are many potential factors that can contribute to anxiety in children, including:

• Genetics – Anxiety disorders often run in families. A child with an anxious parent is more likely to struggle with anxiety themselves.
• Brain chemistry – Some brains produce higher levels of anxiety-stimulating neurochemicals.
• Trauma or negative experiences – Traumatic events like abuse, neglect, loss of a loved one, or even school bullying can trigger anxiety.
• Highly sensitive temperaments – Some children are simply wired to be more vulnerable to worries and fears.

The good news is, with understanding and the right support, anxious children can learn to manage their feelings and live full, happy lives.

Signs a Child May Be Struggling with Anxiety

Anxious kids may exhibit both emotional and physical symptoms. Common signs include:

• Avoidance of situations that cause worry, such as school, birthday parties or sleepovers.
• Trouble sleeping and nightmares.
• Stomach aches and headaches with no clear cause.
• Increased clinginess and difficulty separating from parents.
• Frequent tears and meltdowns.
• Withdrawal from peers and avoidance of social situations.
• Perfectionistic tendencies and excessive concern over grades, performance and the opinions of others.

If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them. Speak to your child gently and consider seeking professional support. The earlier anxiety is addressed, the better the outcome.

Supporting Anxious Children

If you are long term fostering an anxious child with ispfostering.org.uk, know that with time, patience and the right care, their anxiety can be overcome. Here are some dos and don’ts:

• Listen: Make time to hear your child’s worries without judgement. Don’t minimise their fears or brush them off. Validate their feelings and assure them things can get better.
• Model calm: Respond calmly during moments of anxiety. Children look to caregivers to model how to cope.
• Teach coping skills: Help kids learn to manage anxiety through exercise, deep breathing, visualisation, yoga or other relaxing activities. Praise them for using their coping tools.
• Keep communication open: Check in regularly about how your child is feeling. Ensure they know they can come to you for support any time.
• Stick to routines: Consistent daily routines are reassuring for anxious children. Help keep their days as predictable as possible.
• Set small goals: Don’t expect perfection. Praise small wins and moments of bravery to build confidence.
• Know when to seek help: If anxiety is disrupting daily life over an extended time, consult a doctor or mental health professional.

With compassion, consistency and professional support when needed, foster carers can make an immense difference in helping children manage anxiety. The key is ensuring they feel understood, reassured and empowered to face life’s challenges.