Every child worries sometimes. Worry is part of how kids make sense of a big, unpredictable world. But when worries start to take over bedtime, school mornings or family life, parents understandably want to know what's normal and how to help.

Here are the worries our therapists hear about most often from families, and what helps.

The most common childhood worries

Worries about unpredictable places and people

Many anxious kids feel most uneasy when they don't know what to expect: a new classroom, a substitute teacher, a crowded party. Predictability is calming. Previewing the plan ("First we'll park, then we'll walk in together, then I'll stay for five minutes") can make a big difference.

Worries about being apart from a parent

Separation worries are especially common in younger children and during transitions like a new school year, a move or a new sibling. Short, warm goodbyes and a reliable return ("I'll be at the pickup line at 3:15") help children learn that separations end.

Worries about scary things at school

Kids hear about lockdown drills, peer conflict and frightening news. They may not bring it up directly, but it can surface as school refusal or stomachaches on school mornings. Ask gently and let them know no question is too big.

Worries about death and dying

Questions about death often appear after a loss, a pet dying or something seen on TV. These questions can be unsettling for parents, but they are a normal part of development. Simple, honest answers and lots of reassurance about who takes care of them go a long way.

What parents ask us most

Parents often ask how to reassure their child, or whether they should change routines at home to work around the anxiety. It's a caring instinct. But constantly rearranging family life can accidentally teach a child that the worry is in charge.

Parents also tell us they feel anxious themselves, worried about their child's next worry before it even happens. That's completely understandable. Kids pick up on our feelings, so caring for your own anxiety is part of helping theirs.

When worries need extra support

If your child's worries aren't eased by reassurance, are getting in the way of school or family routines, or are starting to wear you down, it may be time to talk with someone. Our anxiety counseling for children helps kids and parents work through worries together. We see children and families at our Overland Park and Olathe offices, and in Kansas City, Liberty and Gladstone.

Call our intake team at 913-229-5691.