Sometimes When I’m Worried

Sometimes When I’m Worried, written by Deborah Serani and illustrated by Kyra Teis, is a children’s book about a young child who experiences various types of worries. In the book, the little girl goes to her father and sister when she is scared and is offered practical advice on how to handle her anxiety.

As a therapist, I think this book can make for a great resource for both children and adults. It lists out various activities one can do to manage anxiety, such as finding something to control (e.g., counting to ten), regulating one’s body by doing breathing exercises or yoga, or talking to an adult.

For parents and caregivers, the last few pages explain how anxiety may appear in toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children. It also offers strategies for managing the anxiety at home, when to seek help, and a list of agencies that can provide additional support.

One thing that really stood out to me as both a mental health professional and parent was how the book emphasized validating a child’s worry. Oftentimes, we over-think how to support an anxious child, but sometimes the simplest steps are the most crucial.