(Younger children are naturally more anxious than older children, which is why this is the first question.)
(When a child or teen needs you to reassure them often or repeatedly, that's a clear sign of anxiety.)
(Some children are picky as a preference -- they like what they like but can manage if things aren't quite right. But kids who get trapped are likely anxious.)
(Sometimes families describe this as "walking on eggshells" because they are working so hard not to upset their child. Or they may suddenly realize that their lives have become more restrictive bit by bit.)
(This could be talking to a teacher or a grandparent or ordering for your child at a restaurant.)
(Like leaving work early to get them from school or skipping coffee with a friend or staying with them in their room because they won't go to sleep by themselves.)
(Are you always thinking about how to help your anxious child not be anxious? Do you find yourself planning around them or around their possible reactions?)
(This could also include avoiding certain television shows, books. or games that are otherwise age appropriate but that you think might scare them.)
(Do you ever have to start your morning routine over because you went out of order? Or does your child have to keep checking their backpack before leaving for school? Are they able to skip certain steps or do they get stuck repeating them?)
(In other words, are you or other people blaming your parenting choices for your child's behavior? This is unfortunately all too common when it comes to parenting anxious kids!)
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