Occupational Therapy for Anxiety in Children: Helping Kids Feel Calm, Confident, and Capable
Anxiety in children is more common than many people realize. It can show up as worries, clinginess, sleep issues, meltdowns, or even physical symptoms like stomach aches. When anxiety begins to interfere with a child’s everyday life — at home, school, or in social settings — it’s important to seek support. One of the most effective and practical forms of help is Occupational Therapy (OT).
Occupational Therapists work holistically with children to support emotional regulation, sensory needs, and functional independence. Through hands-on, play-based, and evidence-informed strategies, OT helps children feel safe, understood, and empowered to manage their anxiety in real-life situations.
How OT Helps Children with Anxiety
1. Understanding the child’s sensory and emotional needs
Some children experience anxiety due to sensory sensitivities — such as loud noises, crowded spaces, or scratchy clothing. OTs assess and support these sensory triggers with calming activities and sensory diets that help regulate the nervous system.
2. Teaching emotional regulation and coping strategies
Occupational Therapy provides children with practical tools to recognise and manage their anxious feelings. This may include deep breathing techniques, visual supports, movement breaks, or calming routines tailored to each child’s needs.
3. Building confidence through achievable goals
Children with anxiety often avoid tasks they find overwhelming. OTs break these down into manageable steps, helping children experience success and gradually build confidence in their abilities at home, school, and in social environments.
4. Supporting independence in daily tasks
Anxiety can affect everything from getting ready for school to trying new foods or joining group activities. OT supports skill development in self-care, transitions, and participation in daily routines, helping reduce stress and increase independence.
5. Collaborating with families and schools
OTs work closely with parents, teachers, and caregivers to create consistent strategies and environments that support the child’s emotional well-being. This ensures that children feel safe and supported across all settings.
Why Occupational Therapy Works for Anxious Children
What makes OT unique is its focus on the child’s whole life — not just symptoms. Occupational Therapists look at how anxiety affects a child’s participation, behaviour, learning, and overall well-being. Then, they provide personalised strategies that are practical, compassionate, and effective.
Key benefits of OT for child anxiety:
- Calming tools tailored to the child’s needs
- Improved self-regulation and emotional understanding
- Support with transitions and new situations
- Increased independence in daily life
- Better communication between home, school, and therapy
With the right OT support, anxious children can feel more in control of their emotions, more confident in themselves, and more able to engage with the world around them.
Is Your Child Struggling with Anxiety? OT Can Help
If your child is avoiding activities, struggling with sleep or school, or constantly feeling overwhelmed, they may benefit from Occupational Therapy. Early support can make a big difference — helping your child feel calm, connected, and capable.
📞 Book a free consultation today to speak with a paediatric Occupational Therapist who understands anxiety and knows how to help your child thrive.
