Spring 2026

What to Do When Fear Interferes, Revised Edition

A Kid's Guide to Overcoming Phobias

From the Series What-to-Do Guides for Kids

  • Interest Level: Grade 2 - Grade 5
  • Reading Level: Grade 3

A practical, kid-friendly workbook to help children face fears and build confidence

Feeling afraid is a normal part of growing up, but when fears become overwhelming or start to limit everyday activities, children may need extra support. This engaging workbook helps kids understand what fear is, why it shows up, and how they can begin to feel more in control when worries take over.

What to Do When Fear Interferes is a revised and updated edition of the best-selling workbook that guides children through proven, step-by-step strategies for facing persistent fears. Through interactive exercises, approachable illustrations, and clear guidance, kids learn how to gradually build confidence and handle challenging situations at their own pace. A dedicated section for parents and caregivers offers additional insight and practical ways to support children as they practice new skills.

Key features:

  • For Ages 8–9: Designed for children whose fears feel intense or interfere with daily activities
  • Interactive Workbook Format: Uses hands-on activities and illustrations to keep children engaged and motivated
  • Evidence-Based Approach: Introduces cognitive-behavioral techniques in a clear, child-appropriate way
  • Confidence-Building Tools: Helps children understand fears, challenge scary thoughts, and take manageable steps forward
  • Trusted Series and Publisher: Part of the What-to-Do Guides for Kids series from Magination Press, the children’s imprint of the American Psychological Association
Format Your Price Add
978-1-4338-4879-7
On pre-order until 05/05/2026
$16.99
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on library bound hardcovers and all eBook and eBook with Audio editions when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Grade 2 - Grade 5
Reading Level Grade 3
Genre Social Studies
Category 5 Kinds of Nonfiction, 5KN: Active Nonfiction, Diverse Books: Mental Health & Neurodiversity, Diversity, SEL: A Self-Awareness, SEL: B Self-Management, SEL: E Responsible Decision-Making, Social Emotional Learning
Copyright 2026
Publisher Magination Press, American Psychological Association
Imprint Magination Press — American Psychological Association
Language English
Number of Pages 88
Publication Date 2026-05-05
Text Type Procedural
BISACS JNF024140, JNF053160, JNF001000
Dimensions 8 x 10
Guided Reading Level TBD
Features Activities, Original artwork, and Table of contents

Author: Claire A. B. Freeland, PhD

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.

Author: Jacqueline B. Toner, PhD

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.

Illustrator: Janet McDonnell

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.