Recognizing Early Signs of Anxiety in Children

It might surprise you to know that anxiety is now one of the most common mental health challenges facing children in Canada today. In fact, nearly 19% of children and adolescents experience anxiety-related issues that can affect their daily lives, according to data from The Canadian Paediatric Society.

While it’s normal for kids to worry from time to time, anxiety in kids can show up in ways that are easy to miss, especially in younger children. Many parents wonder, “What does anxiety look like in elementary school students?” The signs aren’t always loud or overly obvious. Sometimes it’s a tummy ache before school, avoiding sleepovers, or needing constant reassurance from parents or teachers.

That’s why recognizing the early signs of anxiety matters. Spotting anxiety symptoms in children early on gives families the best chance to give their children the proper support, and that can make all the difference in their long-term mental health.

What Is Childhood Anxiety and How Does It Differ from Normal Worry?

All kids worry sometimes. This is a natural part of growing up and stepping into the world with a greater level of independence. Maybe they feel nervous before a test, or a little scared to try something new. These feelings are totally normal. But when that worry sticks around, gets bigger, and starts to interfere with daily life, it may be something more serious, like childhood anxiety.

So what’s the difference between typical fears and an actual childhood anxiety disorder? Normal worry comes and goes. It usually shows up in specific moments, like before a performance or on the first day of school. But with anxiety, the fear doesn’t fade. It can show up even when there’s no clear reason, and it can begin to take over a child’s ability to eat, sleep, play, learn and function. .

That is why child anxiety detection is so important. Identifying the signs early means families can get the proper support before anxiety becomes too overwhelming. While anxiety disorders may be among the most common mental health issues in kids, they are also highly treatable when they are addressed early.

There are different types of childhood anxiety disorders to be aware of, including:

• Separation Anxiety – fear of being apart from parents or caregivers
• Social Anxiety – intense fear of social situations or being judged
• Generalized Anxiety – ongoing worry about everyday things
• Specific Phobias – extreme fear of a particular object or specific situation

If you are wondering how to tell if your child has anxiety, understanding the patterns and the different types of anxiety is a good first step. It is also important to know that you are not alone, and support is available.

Physical Symptoms of Anxiety in Children 

Anxiety doesn’t just live in the mind. It often shows up in the body, especially for children. In fact, anxiety symptoms in children can look a lot like physical health problems, which is why they’re often so easy to miss.

Some of the most common physical symptoms of anxiety in children include sleep trouble (like having a hard time falling asleep, frequent nightmares, or even bedwetting). 

You might also notice your child complaining of stomachaches, headaches, or feeling sick with no clear reason or other symptoms. Other signs include changes in appetite, restlessness, fidgeting, or seeming constantly tired even after a good night’s sleep.

For parents and caregivers, these symptoms can be confusing. It is easy to think your child just has an upset stomach or has come down with something. But when these patterns keep happening, especially during school days or before social events, they could be the early signs of childhood anxiety.

Emotional Changes and Behaviours Linked to Anxiety in Kids

Sometimes anxiety is not apparent or visible and doesn’t look like anxiety at all.  It looks like mood swings, meltdowns, or a child suddenly refusing to go to school, or participate in activities that they once enjoyed. These emotional and behavioural signs are just as important as the physical symptoms when it comes to being able to spot the early signs of anxiety.

You might notice your child is constantly worrying about things like schoolwork, family, or even what might go wrong tomorrow. Kids with anxiety often ask for a lot of reassurance. 

“Will you be there?” 

“What if I mess up?”

And they often have a hard time calming down, even after you attempt to calm their fears.

Other signs of childhood anxiety can include emotional outbursts, increased irritability, avoiding situations, or showing signs of perfectionism, like being afraid to try something new unless they are certain they can do it just right.

These behaviours can disrupt routines, affect friendships, and make everyday life feel a great deal harder than it needs to be. That is why it is worth paying close attention. When these patterns show up often, they could point to a childhood anxiety disorder.

If you are wondering how to tell if your child has anxiety, watching out for these behaviours is a good place to start.

Social and Academic Indicators of Anxiety in Kids

Anxiety doesn’t always show up as panic or tears. Sometimes, it shows up in the classroom.

Kids with anxiety symptoms may suddenly stop handing in their homework, freeze during tests and exams, or avoid speaking up in class, even if they know the answer. They might ask to go to the bathroom just to escape a stressful situation or act out to distract from the pressure they feel inside. For some children, school becomes a place of constant worry about making mistakes or being embarrassed.

These struggles can lead to a noticeable drop in grades or participation levels. What may look like laziness or defiance is often a sign of something deeper, like childhood anxiety.

While some children also withdraw from friends or avoid group activities, these social changes often go hand in hand with what’s happening academically.

Understanding how childhood anxiety disorders can show up at school is very important. When kids feel safe and supported, they are more likely to learn, grow, and thrive in an academic setting. 

When to Seek Help for an Anxious Child

It is okay if you are not sure whether your child’s worries are typical or something more concerning. But if the symptoms have been going on for a few weeks, or they are starting to affect your child’s mood, friendships, or school life, it is time to look into getting some support.

Child anxiety detection is about noticing when everyday worries start getting in the way. If anxiety in kids is making their life harder, you don’t have to wait for things to get worse.

The therapists at Toronto Family Therapy & Mediation have specialized training in psychotherapy and child development and have specific expertise for treating anxiety and children. During an initial evaluation, they will talk with parents and children about what’s been happening and suggest a plan to help.

Parents and caregivers can start the conversation with a child by saying, “I’ve noticed you have been feeling worried a lot…do you want to talk about it?” or parents can discuss their concerns about their child with a therapist by saying, “I think my child might be struggling with anxiety, what are the next steps?”

Supporting a Child with Anxiety

Supporting a child with childhood anxiety starts with creating a home where they feel heard, safe, and accepted. Where there is no pressure to have it all figured out.

It is important to keep routines predictable. Knowing what to expect can help ease any worry. Try introducing simple tools and techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness exercises, especially during stressful times. Even just a few calm minutes together can go a long way.

Kids also learn by watching. When you model healthy ways to handle stress, they will start building their own healthy coping skills as well.

Above all, be patient. Anxiety in kids takes time to manage, but your calm, consistent support matters more than you know.

If you’ve been wondering how to tell if my child has anxiety, or what to do next, you are not alone. Professionals, like the team at Toronto Family Therapy, can work with you to build a plan that fits your child’s needs.

Are You Worried About Your Child’s Anxiety? We’re Here to Help

If you’ve noticed anxiety symptoms in your child, whether it’s trouble sleeping, constant worrying, or a drop in their confidence, trust your gut instincts. These can be the early signs of childhood anxiety, and they are not something you have to figure out on your own.

The good news? Childhood anxiety disorders are highly treatable, especially with early support. kids respond well to the right kind of care, and even the smallest steps can make a big difference.

At Toronto Family Therapy, we offer specialized child counselling that is tailored to your child’s unique needs. Our experienced therapists create a safe, inviting space where kids can express themselves and learn the tools they need to manage feelings of anxiety with confidence.

If you’re wondering when to seek help for an anxious child, our therapists are here to help.

We will listen, guide, and support you every step of the way.

If you’re concerned about your child’s emotional wellbeing, reach out to the compassionate professionals at Toronto Family Therapy. Together, we can help your child feel stronger, more secure, and ready to grow and flourish.

Please note that the information on this page is for educational purposes, not a substitute for professional diagnosis.