New research shows 72% of parents worry about their child’s emotional resilience, yet 1 in 5 admit they aren’t taking steps to support it. With childhood anxiety on the rise, experts warn we may be missing key early intervention opportunities in the early learning years.
The study by Young Academics found 60% of parents say their child struggles with making friends, while 59% said they were concerned about emotional breakdowns.
Another worrying finding, especially as children head to school for Term 1, was that 46% of parents worry their child can’t handle change or new environments.
“Anxiety in young children is manifesting in increasingly complex ways, where I believe this is often influenced by heightened societal pressures, the fast pace of life these days, and even their exposure to digital content from an early age,” Jenni Gaffney, Director of Operations at Young Academics, told The Educator.
“We are seeing more children struggling with separation anxiety, sensory sensitivities, and difficulty regulating their emotions. Some may withdraw socially, while others might display heightened irritability, clinginess, or outbursts that seem disproportionate to the situation.”
“At Young Academics we teach our educator teams on early warning signs to look out for.”
The warnings signs of anxiety
- Changes in behaviour, such as increased aggression or withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed
- Physical symptoms like stomach aches, headaches, or frequent fatigue without a clear medical cause
- Difficulty with transitions, including moving between activities, changing environments, or even separating from a parent/educator
- Perfectionism or excessive fear of making mistakes, leading to avoidance of challenges
- Repetitive reassurance-seeking from educators or peers
- Trouble focusing or appearing restless, which can sometimes be mistaken for inattentiveness
The key to combating anxiety in young people, says Gaffney, is early intervention.
“When educators build strong, trusting relationships with children, they can identify these signs early and provide support in collaboration with families,” she said.
“Creating a safe, predictable environment with clear routines, gentle encouragement, and emotional regulation strategies can make a significant difference in helping young children manage anxiety.”
Effective strategies to combat anxiety
Gaffney said that in her experience, building emotional strength and adaptability in young children – especially during school transitions – starts with creating a sense of security and belonging.
“Change can be overwhelming for young children, so our approach focuses on preparation, consistency, and emotional connection,” she said.
Young Academics has implemented a number of strategies to help children overcome anxiety.
Below, Gaffney highlights the most effective of these:
Predictability and routine: Children feel more secure when they know what to expect. We use visual schedules, social stories, and transition cues to help them anticipate changes, whether it’s moving from one learning space to another or starting at a new school.
Gradual Transitions: Where possible, we take a phased approach. Whether it’s short visits to a new classroom, meeting educators ahead of time, or introducing small elements of their new routine early, this helps ease anxiety and build confidence.
Teaching children to recognise and express their emotions: We integrate mindfulness techniques, breathing exercises, and emotional check-ins into daily routines, so children develop self-awareness and coping strategies.
The presence of trusted educators: This really makes all the difference. We focus on nurturing secure attachments by offering reassurance, acknowledging emotions, and empowering children with choices, so they feel in control of their experiences.
Simple, achievable challenges: These help children build confidence in their ability to adapt. Whether it’s putting on their own backpack, greeting a teacher independently, or making decisions within structured choices, small wins build resilience!
Transitions as opportunities for growth: This is so important. Transitions should be seen as opportunities for growth rather than something to “get through.” When we create safe, supportive environments that prioritises emotional well-being, children are far more likely to embrace change with confidence and curiosity.
Parent-teacher collaboration is crucial
While many parents acknowledge their child’s struggles with emotional resilience, they aren’t always sure how to support them. Gaffney said supporting a child’s emotional resilience is most effective when educators and parents work together.
“Many parents recognise their child’s struggles but may feel unsure about how to help. Our role is to guide them with practical strategies, open communication, and reassurance,” she said. “Regular check-ins, workshops, and shared resources help bridge the gap between home and early learning.”
Gaffney said simple techniques like deep breathing, naming and recognising emotions, and reinforcing consistency between school and home can make a big difference.
“Modelling resilience in our centres also gives parents a framework to follow,” she said. “I’d like parents to know that resilience isn’t about major interventions but more so everyday moments of connection.”