Child Anxiety & Books
Anxiety is a normal part of childhood, but anxiety disorders can cause kids to perform poorly in school, activities and miss out on social experiences. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America says 1 in 8 children has an anxiety disorder.
When children are experiencing anxiety, they are aware that something doesn’t feel right, but they may not know how to express what is happening to them. Children typically have a feeling that something bad might happen. This presents in ways such as asking the ‘what ifs’, avoidance, anger, tears, and stomachache.
As parents, we want to support our children the best we can by teaching them coping skills and help them understand that many people, including children, have anxiety. There are several ways we can help our children. For example, through words such as ‘I can see that something doesn’t feel right for you’ or ‘I get it, I have anxiety sometimes too’. Another example is books. Children books on anxiety is a great tool for helping children learn about anxiety, empower them to use coping skills, and an example of how others get through anxious moments like theirs. Below are some books I recommend for assisting your elementary age child in certain anxiety situations.
First Day of School Fear
Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
Wemberly worries about everything, but her biggest fear is the first day of school. Kids relate to Wemberly’s fears and learn with her as she overcomes them.
Typical fears such as fear of the dark, dogs, getting lost, and starting school
The I’m Not Scared Book by Todd Parr
Multiple fears are illustrated in this book that encourages kids to address and think through their fears to a solution.
Multiple fears
Is a Worry Worrying You? By Ferida Wolff and Harriet May Savitz
Different hypothetical situations invite kids to think about creative ways to solve worrying problems. This book is a good way to start a conversation with kids about how to rethink reactions to their fears.
Wilma Jean the Worry Machine by Julia Cook
For the fears that are under no one’s control. How to gain control of anxiety in different situations from missing the bus, doing math problems wrong, having friends, and more.
Phobias
Sidetracked by Diana Harmon Asher
A boy struggles to make friends at school due to debilitation phobias of everything.
Before reading an anxiety book with your child, I recommend the parents read it first to determine if it’s a good fit. There is a chance that some children will have a reaction if the book triggers their anxiety. If your child sees a therapist, it’s always a good idea to discuss book options first.
Lori Cull-Deshmukh,
LMSW, CPT
MORE BY LORI
