What to Do (and Not Do) When Children Are Anxious

At Julia Barriga MD PA, we understand that many children experience anxiety, especially when facing new situations or changes in their routine—whether it’s a doctor’s visit, starting school, or meeting new friends. One of the ways we support anxious children and their families is by emphasizing the importance of planning ahead.

Planning ahead can be particularly beneficial for anxious children because it helps reduce uncertainty, which is often a significant source of their anxiety. At our practice, we encourage parents to talk through upcoming appointments and daily routines with their children. When children know what to expect—such as what will happen during their visit to Julia Barriga MD PA—they feel more secure and in control. This preparation gives them an opportunity to mentally prepare for what’s coming, decreasing the likelihood of being caught off guard by unexpected situations.

We also recommend involving children in the planning process, whether it’s preparing for a doctor’s visit or another change in their schedule. This involvement fosters a sense of agency and confidence. Children learn to break down potentially overwhelming tasks into manageable steps, making challenges seem less daunting. For example, before an appointment, families can practice relaxation techniques or positive self-talk together—coping strategies that our team at Julia Barriga MD PA can help teach and reinforce.

By planning ahead, families can also anticipate possible difficulties and proactively discuss solutions or alternatives, further reducing a child’s anxiety. Our team is always here to answer questions and support you in making visits as smooth and predictable as possible. Overall, having a clear plan provides structure and comfort, especially for children who struggle with anxiety.

At Julia Barriga MD PA, we recognize that parents play a crucial role in shaping how their children perceive and respond to anxiety. Our pediatric team encourages parents to model healthy anxiety management at home, as it can have a significant impact on a child’s emotional development.

One of the first steps is for parents to acknowledge their own feelings of worry or stress openly and honestly, using age-appropriate language. For example, calmly sharing, “I’m feeling a bit nervous about this, but I know I can handle it,” helps children see that anxiety is a normal part of life, not something to hide or feel ashamed of.

During your visits to Julia Barriga MD PA, our providers can guide you in demonstrating effective coping strategies for your child. This might include showing your child how to take deep breaths, practice mindfulness, or break big tasks into smaller, manageable steps when feeling overwhelmed. By discussing these techniques and explaining how you use them to feel better, you teach your child practical tools for managing stress.

Maintaining a balanced family routine is another important part of what we recommend at Julia Barriga MD PA. Prioritizing healthy habits like regular exercise, consistent sleep schedules, and nutritious meals supports both physical and emotional health. When parents make time for relaxation, hobbies, and talk about how these activities help them unwind, children learn the value of self-care and stress relief.

We also remind parents to avoid catastrophizing or expressing excessive fear in front of their children. Instead, use positive self-talk and a solution-focused approach when facing challenges. When mistakes or setbacks occur, showing resilience and flexibility teaches children that it is possible to recover and learn from difficult situations.

Our team at Julia Barriga MD PA emphasizes the importance of open communication. We encourage parents to invite their children to share their worries and to listen without judgment. By showing empathy and validating your child’s experiences, you create a safe environment for them to practice and strengthen their own anxiety management skills.

At Julia Barriga MD PA, we understand how challenging it can be for parents to recognize when their child’s anxiety requires professional attention. If your child’s worries begin to interfere with their everyday life—such as avoiding school, social activities, or family gatherings—it may be time to reach out for help. Persistent complaints like stomachaches, headaches, or trouble sleeping, especially when there is no clear medical cause, can also be signs that your child is struggling with anxiety.

If you notice these symptoms lasting for several weeks or months, worsening over time, or impacting your child’s appetite, mood, or behavior, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at our practice. Our pediatric team at Julia Barriga MD PA is experienced in evaluating and supporting children with anxiety. We can help determine whether additional psychological support or interventions are needed to promote your child’s well-being.

At Julia Barriga MD PA, we understand that parents play a crucial role in helping children feel confident during stressful situations. As your trusted pediatric team, we encourage maintaining open communication with your child. Let your child know it’s okay to express their feelings, and listen actively—without judgment. Validating their emotions and reassuring them that it is normal to feel nervous or overwhelmed can go a long way in building their confidence.

As pediatric healthcare providers, we model and recommend positive coping strategies, such as deep breathing or taking a break, which can teach children healthy ways to manage stress. Establishing routines and setting clear expectations at home can also provide a sense of security and predictability, reducing anxiety and helping your child feel more at ease.

Remind your child of their strengths and past successes to build self-esteem and reinforce their ability to handle new challenges. Working together to solve problems empowers children and helps them feel more in control.

At Julia Barriga MD PA, we advise parents to avoid placing excessive pressure or unrealistic expectations on their children. Celebrate effort and progress, not just outcomes. Specific praise for actions like trying something new or asking for help can further boost your child’s confidence.

If your child is facing particularly challenging situations, our team is here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Julia Barriga MD PA for guidance—whether it’s for a check-up, counseling, or a referral to a mental health professional. With patience, encouragement, and consistent support—both at home and in partnership with your pediatrician—children can learn to navigate stress with resilience and confidence.

At Julia Barriga M.D. P.A., the approach to emotional wellness is rooted in a “whole child” philosophy. Under the leadership of Dr. Julia Barriga, a board-certified pediatrician with over 35 years of experience, the clinic serves as a primary hub for identifying and managing pediatric anxiety. Rather than just addressing physical symptoms, the team provides comprehensive developmental screenings and behavioral health counseling to uncover the root causes of a child’s stress.

Treatments are highly personalized and focus on empowering families through health education. Dr. Barriga and her staff guide parents on validating their children’s feelings while establishing predictable routines that foster a sense of security. By integrating mental health into routine pediatric visits, the practice ensures that children receive early intervention—ranging from evidence-based coping strategies to specialized referrals—to help them build lasting resilience.

If you have concerns about your child’s emotional well-being, visit Julia Barriga MD PA. We are dedicated to supporting your family every step of the way. For more information, please contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 5001 East Busch Blvd Tampa, FL 33617. We serve patients from Tampa FL, Terrace FL, Thonotosassa FL, Lutz FL, Greater Carrollwood FL, Lake Magdalene FL, Westchase FL, and Town ‘N’ Country FL.