Social anxiety is the persistent fear of social and/or performance situations. Underlying social anxiety is often beliefs that one will say or do something that will be humiliating or embarrassing, often leading to avoidance of some or all situations involving social interactions .Some children may only feel anxious when speaking or peforming in public (e.g., oral presentations in class), while other children fear and avoid a wide range of social situations and may experience significant difficulties developing and maintaining meaningful friendships.

Social anxiety can develop following a stressful or embarrassing experience, and can worsen over time if not treated early. It can be easy to miss social anxiety, as often children who are socially anxious come across as being quiet and obedient/compliant in school. If not addressed early, social anxiety can lead to poor school performance, reduced confidence in social situations and in the self, difficulties developing and maintaining friendships, depression, and later substance misuse.

• Does your child appear shy or withdrawn e.g. declining social invitations and staying home on weekends rather than going out with friends?
• Have you noticed your child experiencing difficulties making friends or joining in groups?
• Does your child have a limited number of friends?
• Does your child avoid social situations in which they are the centre of attention (e.g., answering questions in class, oral presentations)?
• Have you noticed your child having difficulties maintaining eye contact with others?
• Does your child tend to ask for yourself or another trusted adult to be present for social situations?
• Does your child attempt to avoid going to school, especially in the event of a situation where they would have to be the focus of attention (e.g., show-and-tell)?
• Does your child have difficulties making purchases from the supermarket or ordering food on their own?