Ask Dr. Hirsch: Weekly Q&A with Dr. Shari Hirsch, Pediatrician and Lactation Specialist at Lev Pediatric Care

Ask Dr. Hirsch

Weekly Q and A with Dr. Shari Hirsch, Pediatrician and Lactation Specialist at Lev Pediatric Care

This Week’s Question:
“How can I tell if my child’s anxiety is normal, and when should I help more?”

Dr. Hirsch’s Answer:
A little worry is a normal part of growing up. Nerves before a test, jitters on the first day of school, or butterflies before a big game are common and even healthy. But when anxiety starts to interfere with a child’s daily life, it deserves attention and support.

Anxiety in children is more common than many parents realize, and the good news is that it is very treatable.

What anxiety looks like in children
Children don’t always say, “I’m anxious.” Instead, anxiety often shows up in their bodies or behavior. Common signs include frequent stomach aches or headaches, trouble sleeping, irritability, avoidance of school or activities, clinginess, excessive reassurance-seeking, or difficulty concentrating.

Younger children may have tantrums or regress, while older children may seem withdrawn or overly perfectionistic.

Common triggers
Anxiety can be triggered by academic pressure, social challenges, transitions like a new school or family change, separation from caregivers, or exposure to stressful news or world events. Some children are naturally more sensitive or cautious, and that temperament is not a flaw. It just means they may need extra support.

When to be concerned
It’s worth seeking help if anxiety lasts for weeks or months, interferes with school or friendships, causes frequent physical symptoms, or prevents your child from doing age-appropriate activities. Early support can make a big difference.

How parents can help
Start by validating feelings instead of dismissing them. Saying “I can see this feels hard” is more helpful than “You’re fine.” Try not to over-reassure, as that can reinforce anxiety. Keep routines predictable, encourage small steps toward feared situations, and model calm coping. When a child is struggling to regulate, the adult should be the calm one in the room.

When to seek professional help
Talk to your pediatrician if anxiety is persistent or impairing. Some children benefit from therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy, school-based supports, family guidance, or, in some cases, medication. Pediatricians can help guide next steps and coordinate care.

Bottom line
Anxiety does not mean something is wrong with your child. It means their nervous system is working overtime. With understanding, patience, and the right tools, children can learn to manage anxiety and thrive. If your child is struggling, you are not alone, and help is available.

 ​Dr. Shari Hirsch, MD, specializes in infant feeding, including expert newborn support, lactation guidance, and frenotomy (tongue-tie release). She also offers emotional wellness care, with guidance and medication management for attention, mood, and anxiety support.

Lev Pediatric Care is located at Evergreen Uptown Mall in Pomona. Their hours are Sunday through Thursday, 10:00 am to 7:45 pm, and Friday, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. Same-day appointments are available. To schedule, call 845-579-5700. They also provide free car service to and from doctor visits.

Have a question for next week’s column? Send it to Lev Pediatric Care, and Dr. Hirsch may feature it in an upcoming Q&A