My Worry Box (Kids)
A child-friendly CBT worksheet where children write or draw their worries, rate their size, choose brave thoughts and agree on a daily worry time with a caring adult.
2-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · CBT for children
- Approach / concern
- For Kids
- Technique
- CBT for children
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 2 pages (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the My Worry Box (Kids)?
Externalizing worries by writing them down and ‘posting’ them in a box helps children feel more in control. Combined with brave self-talk and a scheduled worry time, this activity adapts adult CBT strategies for anxiety into a playful, concrete format.
Why it works
Coping self-talk, problem-solving and gradual approach are key components of evidence-based CBT for childhood anxiety (Kendall & Hedtke, 2006). A predictable worry time with a caregiver reduces reassurance-seeking throughout the day.
When to use it
- Generalized worry in children aged 6-11
- Bedtime worries
- School-related anxiety
- Parent coaching for anxious children
How to use it in session
- Make or decorate a real worry box together.
- Help the child write or draw worries and rate their size.
- Choose brave thoughts to practise.
- Set a daily worry time and keep it brief and calm.
- Celebrate brave actions, not just fewer worries.
Clinician tips
- Avoid excessive reassurance. Guide the child to their brave thought instead.
- Keep worry time out of the bedtime routine.
- Notice and praise any approach behaviour.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
What if the child worries outside worry time?
Gently remind them to post it in the box for later. It takes practice and consistency.
When should I refer for more help?
If worries interfere with school, sleep or friendships for several weeks, a full assessment is recommended.
References
Kendall, P. C., & Hedtke, K. A. (2006). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxious children: Therapist manual (3rd ed.). Workbook Publishing.
Southam-Gerow, M. A., & Kendall, P. C. (2002). Emotion regulation and understanding: Implications for child psychopathology and therapy. Clinical Psychology Review, 22(2), 189-222.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
