By Myra Strassler, LCSW-C, Therapy Services, Jewish Community Services
All parents have the experience of seeing their children become anxious now and then. It might be when they are facing their first day of school, taking a test, or learning a new skill. A little mild anxiety is helpful in some situations; it helps children anticipate what lies ahead. They become motivated and more focused to prepare.
But sometimes a child’s anxiety becomes excessive and can negatively affect his or her behavior. These children cannot be reassured and comforted. Their anxiety overtakes them. With childhood anxiety disorders affecting one in eight children, parents need help with differentiating normal anxiety from the more intense anxiety that can stall their child’s development.
How do you know if your child’s anxiety is excessive or problematic?...
