Is It Childhood Anxiety or Just Normal Worry?

As a parent, it's natural to worry when your child seems fearful, clingy, or unusually quiet. But how do you know if it’s just a passing phase—or a sign of childhood anxiety?

What Is Childhood Anxiety?

Childhood anxiety is more than just occasional nervousness. It’s a mental health condition where children experience persistent, excessive fear or worry that interferes with their daily life, relationships, and development.

While some worry is part of growing up, anxiety becomes a concern when it starts to affect school, sleep, social activities, or self-esteem.

Normal Worry vs. Childhood Anxiety: What’s the Difference?

Normal Worry	Childhood Anxiety
Temporary and specific (e.g., fear of a test or thunderstorm)	Persistent and overwhelming fear, often without a clear reason
Usually fades with reassurance or time	Doesn’t go away even after comfort or logic
Doesn’t impact daily functioning	Affects school, friendships, sleep, or eating habits
Age-appropriate (e.g., separation anxiety in toddlers)	Unusual for age group or continues longer than expected

Common Signs of Childhood Anxiety

Children don’t always have the words to explain how they feel. Here are signs that may point to anxiety instead of everyday worry:

Emotional & Behavioral Signs

• Excessive clinginess or fear of being alone

• Avoiding school or social situations

• Meltdowns or panic over small triggers

• Constant need for reassurance

• Irritability or outbursts without clear cause

Physical Symptoms

• Frequent stomachaches or headaches

• Trouble falling or staying asleep

• Rapid heartbeat or sweating

• Fatigue or muscle tension

When to Seek Help for Childhood Anxiety

If your child’s worry:

• Lasts for weeks or months

• Interferes with school, friendships, or family routines

• Leads to panic attacks, withdrawal, or refusal to participate in normal activities

…it may be time to consult a mental health professional.

Early support can make a big difference. At Alder Grove Counseling, we specialize in working with children and families to address anxiety with compassion, evidence-based therapy, and tools tailored to each child’s unique needs.

How Therapy Can Help Your Child

Child-centered therapy, such as play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and parent coaching, can help children:

• Understand and express their feelings

• Learn coping skills and calming techniques

• Build confidence in new situations

• Feel heard and supported

We also work closely with parents to help you feel empowered—not helpless—in your child’s journey.

You’re Not Alone—Let’s Navigate This Together

It’s not always easy to know what your child is going through, but you don’t have to figure it out alone.

If you’re wondering whether your child is facing childhood anxiety, we invite you to connect with Alder Grove Counseling. Our team of caring therapists is here to help your family find clarity, relief, and healing.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.