In a classroom, counselling room or at home before a presentation, this printable worksheet helps children practise turning anxious predictions about public speaking into calmer, more balanced self-talk.
The Changing Worry Thoughts Worksheet for Children is a printable PDF designed to help children notice anxious predictions and practise replacing them with calmer, more balanced thoughts. It is suitable for teachers, school counsellors, therapists and parents supporting primary-aged children who feel nervous about public speaking, class presentations, assemblies or being judged by others.
The worksheet introduces Pierre, who is worried about giving a speech to his class. His worry thoughts are shown in speech clouds, including the fear that he will mess up, be laughed at, or that nobody will like his speech. Children then complete the blank thought clouds with alternative statements, encouraging them to slow down, look for evidence, and choose coping self-talk that feels realistic rather than overly positive.
This resource can be used as part of a wellbeing lesson, a CBT-informed activity, a small group intervention, or a one-to-one discussion about anxiety and school nerves. It also works well for home learning or revision before a presentation, giving adults a clear prompt for talking about feelings, thoughts and helpful actions. Children can write, draw or talk through their answers, depending on age and confidence. It can be kept in a counselling folder or classroom wellbeing pack.
Download, print and use the worksheet when a child needs support to challenge worry thoughts before speaking in front of others. This resource was created by MyleMarks.com.
