What to Do When Fear Interferes
Can kids learn to face their fears? Absolutely—and this workbook helps them do it step by step!
Lots of kids feel nervous about things like spiders, heights, or loud noises. But when fear starts getting in the way of everyday fun, it's time to take action—and this book is here to help.
What to Do When Fear Interferes is a friendly, interactive guide that helps kids understand their fears and build the confidence to face them. With engaging activities, colorful illustrations, and expert strategies, this workbook helps kids face their fears with confidence and courage.
Whether your child is afraid of the dark, dogs, or something else entirely, this book offers a safe space to explore those feelings and discover how brave they really are.
Key features:
- written for kids ages 6-12 who struggle with phobias or overwhelming fears
- step-by-step tools based on cognitive-behavioral therapy to help kids manage anxiety
- encourages emotional awareness and builds resilience through creative exercises
- helps kids identify triggers, challenge scary thoughts, and take brave steps forward
- part of the trusted What-to-Do Guides for Kids series—used by parents, educators, and therapists for over 20 years
- includes a supportive guide for parents and caregivers to help kids succeed
- created by Magination Press, the children's imprint of APA—trusted experts in children's mental health and well-being
Claire A. B. Freeland, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, working for more than thirty-five years with youth and their families. Interested in bringing the general principles of cognitive–behavioral therapy to families everywhere. Dr. Freeland lives near Baltimore, Maryland.
Jacqueline B. Toner, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, having earned her PhD from University of Virginia and served as Chief Facilitator for a medical resources project with Johns Hopkins School of Public Health and Carnegie Mellon University. Dr. Toner lives near Baltimore, Maryland.
Janet McDonnell’s illustrations combine traditional media and digital techniques. In addition to illustrating books, magazines, and puzzles, Janet has both taught and written for children from preschool to high school ages.
This resource aims to empower families with science-based, practical strategies to overcome fears that disrupt daily life.
—School Library Journal
Note to Parents and Caregivers
- Chapter 1: Emergencies and False Alarms
- Chapter 2: Getting Used to It
- Chapter 3:Gauges and Ladders
- Chapter 4: Plan for Obstacles
- Chapter 5: Filling Your Fuel Tank
- Chapter 6: Quieting the Alarms
- Chapter 7: Blast Off!
- Chapter 8: You Can Do It!
