School Anxiety in Kids

“My child is really nervous about going back to school. Is this normal?”

“They used to love school but now they are so anxious about going back, is this normal?”

The short answer is—often times, yes it is normal. Later on we will talk about when it’s not.

Transitions are hard for everyone, including Adults and the start of a new school year brings a mix of excitement and stress, much like when we start a new job. Even kids who usually love

school can experience anxiety about new teachers, unfamiliar routines, and social pressures.

Why Do Kids Get Anxious Before School Starts?

• Fear of the unknown (new classroom, teachers, classmates)

• Academic pressure

• Separation from parents, especially after a long summer together

• Social stress/bullying

• Sensory overwhelm because school is a “busy” social setting

  
  

Signs of Back-to-School Anxiety

Children don’t always say, “I’m anxious.” Instead, you might notice:

• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

• Stomachaches or headaches without a clear medical cause

• Irritability, tantrums, meltdowns

• Refusal to go to school or talk about school

• Regression in behavior (new bedwetting, new tantrums, change in attitude)

**If these symptoms are interfering with daily life or ability to go to school or last longer than 2-3 weeks, please reach out to your Pediatrician.

How To Support Your Child’s Transition

1. Talk About It Openly - Let your child know it’s okay to feel nervous.

Allow the emotions. Normalize their emotions by saying words such as:

• “It’s totally normal to feel a little worried before a new school year. Even adults feel that way before something new.”

• “Is there something specific you’re worried about? Let’s figure it out together.”

  
  

2. Re-establish Routines:

• Start practicing school routines a week or two before the first day.

• Earlier bedtimes and regular wake-up times and meal schedules. This gets kids AND parents back in the right mindset.

  
  

3. Visit the School (If Possible) - If your child is starting at a new school or has changed classrooms, try to visit ahead of time. Try to meet the teacher if possible.

4. Create Goodbye Rituals -If your child struggles with separation, establish a goodbye ritual—like a special handshake or phrase. Keep it brief but consistent.

5. Practice Coping Skills Together - Teach simple calming techniques like:

• Deep breathing

• Visualization ("Imagine your favorite place")

• Positive self-talk ("I can handle this!")

• Rainbow Breathing

  
  

6. Model Confidence - Your attitude matters. Try to stay upbeat and calm—even if you feel

anxious too.

7. If its a sensory concern (think loud noises, overstimulation) then work with the teacher to:

• Find a way for your child to get space when needed

• Allow Sensory toys/fidget toys

• Headphones for when it feels too loud

What if this isn’t enough? When should I seek more help?

If your child’s anxiety:

• Lasts beyond the first few weeks of school

• Leads to refusal to attend school

• Interferes with eating, sleeping, or daily life

Back-to-school anxiety is common but with patience, preparation, and support, most kids adjust well and thrive. Keep the lines of communication open, trust your instincts as a parent, and remember—you’re not alone in this. Sometimes you may need more help and if that’s the case just give your Pediatrician a call!

Wishing your family a calm and confident start to the school year!

Dr. K