Anxiety & Emotional Well-Being Resources
Anxiety shows up differently for every child — sometimes as worry, sometimes as irritability, and sometimes as big emotions that feel hard to manage. It doesn’t mean something is “wrong,” but it can get in the way of daily life if left unaddressed.
With the right tools and support, children can learn to understand and navigate their feelings. These resources reflect what we share with families in my practice: clear explanations, practical strategies, and ways to build resilience while honoring each child’s experiences.
Books
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What to Do When Your Brain Gets Stuck: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming OCD— Dawn Huebner & Bonnie Matthews
I love how this introduces practical strategies for kids while also helping parents learn the CBT language. It makes it easier to have a shared vocabulary at home when talking about worries and how to work through them.
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What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety — Dawn Huebner
Another favorite in the same series. It uses the metaphor of a “worry monster” to make anxiety less intimidating. Kids can actually see how feeding the worry makes it grow and how using strategies helps it shrink. It’s playful and concrete, which makes it really stick.
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Hey Warrior — Karen Young
A beautifully illustrated book that explains anxiety as a protective alarm system in the body. Simple, empowering, and especially great for younger kids who need a visual way to understand what’s happening inside them.
Podcasts
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Scrambled: The Children’s Mental Health Podcast
Their series on anxiety is one I recommend often. The hosts are my good friends, and it’s wonderful to hear the way they mix honesty, warmth, and humor. It feels like sitting in on a supportive conversation — not a lecture.
Websites & Programs
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GoZen!
Animated videos that explain anxiety, worry, and stress in kid-friendly ways. Beyond the fun visuals, GoZen actually has a full treatment protocol for anxiety that can be incredibly helpful for families.
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Understood.org
Articles, resources, and community stories for parents — especially helpful when anxiety is tied to school stress.
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Mightier
Turns biofeedback into a game so kids can practice calming skills while literally watching their body relax on the screen.
Videos
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Anatomy of Anxiety in the Brain
Makes brain science simple and visual.
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Freeze, Flight, or Fight
Explains the body’s natural responses in a way kids and parents can both understand.
Apps
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MindShift CBT
Teen-friendly, straightforward, and a great way for kids to practice coping strategies and track their progress.
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Headspace
Good for families who want to try mindfulness in approachable, short segments.
Anxiety isn’t just about worry — it can show up as irritability, perfectionism, or avoidance. These resources can help families build shared language and practical strategies.