Shyness is a very normal part of childhood. In fact, two out of five adults consider themselves to be shy. What we also know that about 13 percent of our kids really suffer from pronounced anxiety. That shyness is robbing them of the ability to just get on with life. What you are looking for is, first, just exaggerated fears that aren't normal. Your child may even recognize that, "I just can't handle this fear." Second, you see that your child is really holding back and just want to be part of life; so clingy, so resistant, so much crying, so much anger. You know any of those signs is saying, "I need to step in and do something." You see physical signs. This child is beginning to have nightmares. He doesn't want to eat. He doesn't want to go out in the world. These are all signs that say, what I am doing now is helping him feel secure, but I may need to get some professional help. I'm going to pick up the phone and get some help. The best news is that 90 percent of our kids can get help with anxiety reducers. Do your child a favor, get the help if they are feeling uncomfortable with life.