What to Do When You Feel Too Shy: A Kid's Guide to Overcoming Social Anxiety (What-to-Do Guides for Kids Series)

Can kids feel confident in social situations? Yes―and this workbook helps them speak up and shine!

NAPPA Award Winner and finalist in the Foreword INDIES Book Awards

Meeting new people, speaking in class, or joining group activities can feel intimidating. For kids who struggle with shyness or social anxiety, even everyday interactions can be overwhelming. But with the right tools, kids can learn to manage those feelings and build the confidence to connect.

What to Do When You Feel Too Shy is an interactive guide that helps kids understand social anxiety and develop skills to feel more comfortable in social settings. Through engaging activities, colorful illustrations, and expert strategies, this workbook empowers kids to express themselves, make friends, and feel proud of who they are.

Whether your child is hesitant to speak up or worried about fitting in, this book offers a safe space to explore those feelings―and build the courage to connect with confidence.

Key Features:

• Perfect for kids ages 6–12 who feel nervous in social situations or struggle with shyness
• Uses proven cognitive-behavioral techniques to help kids manage anxiety and build social confidence
• Encourages self-expression and connection through fun, hands-on exercises
• Helps kids recognize anxious thoughts, practice coping skills, and celebrate small wins
• Includes a supportive guide for parents and caregivers to help kids thrive socially
• Part of the trusted What-to-Do Guides for Kids series―used by parents, educators, and therapists for more than 20 years
• Created by Magination Press, the children’s imprint of the American Psychological Association―leaders 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. She is interested in bringing the general principles of cognitive–behavioral therapy to families everywhere.

Jacqueline B. Toner, PhD, is the author of multiple award-winning books for kids and teens which focus on topics in psychology. Prior to her writing career, she spent thirty-five years as a clinical child and family psychologist and served as chief facilitator for a medical resources project with Johns Hopkins School of Public Health and Carnegie Mellon University.

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.