Back to School Guide: Student Edition
Labor Day came and went, and for most students, the school year started this week. If you’ve noticed your child acting anxious or fearsome about going back to school, don’t worry. Back to school anxiety is common in children.
Why do children get back to school anxiety?
Going back to school is a stressful time for students and parents alike. Schedules change and become more rigid, there’s homework and extracurricular activities, and the challenge of meeting friends and forming social circles.
There is so much excitement around new supplies, clothes, and other school goodies but there is also a fear of the unknown. A student could be entering a new school and have worry about making friends and having a different teacher.
Not to mention how much schools have changed since the pandemic began in 2020. Students experienced a full year or more of at-home school. The stress of the past few years may still be impactful. While it’s no longer a novel illness, COVID-19 is still contagious and can alter school or extracurricular schedules.
It’s important to validate your child’s feelings and make sure they know that you’re in their corner. If they’re feeling anxious about COVID-19, it can help to remind them of what’s in their control. Schedule an appointment for the vaccine or booster if they’re eligible, hand wash and wear a mask when cases are high.
What are symptoms of back-to-school anxiety?
Children can show anxiety in different ways, so be on the lookout for changes in your child’s mood and behaviors. Anxiety can present itself in physical symptoms as well. Red flag’s that indicate anxiety in children include:
· Tantrums while separating from parents at school
· Disturbances in sleep
· Difficulty getting along with friends and family
· Lack of energy and concentration
· Avoidance in normal hobbies and activities outside of school
· Physical symptoms like nausea, muscle tension, stomach aches and headaches
How can you help?
There are plenty of ways a parent can help ease their child’s back-to-school anxiety. Here are some ways you can help:
1. Preparation
One major way you can help your child ease their anxiety is being prepared. Before the first day of school, have an open discussion with your child and allow them to air their stresses and fears. A conversation like this can have a cathartic effect and help them feel more prepared for the start of school.
Along with open conversations, you can also help prepare your child by switching their schedule to more accurately reflect a school-time schedule a couple weeks before school starts. Try setting an earlier bedtime, selecting outfits the night before and packing lunches.
2. Encouragement
Set up playdates with schoolmates and encourage your child to talk to their friends. This will help your child remember that they’re not alone in their anxiety and having fears about starting school again is common. According to this study, research shows that the presence of a familiar face or friend during the back-to-school transition can improve academic and emotional adjustments.
3. Practice
Much like setting a similar schedule a couple weeks before school starts, physically going to school or drop-off can help a child ease their anxiety. Try visiting the school before the year begins and run through drop-off and pick up scenarios. You can play on the playground and even walk through the halls and locate their classroom if the school is open.
4. Reward
If your child is still showing signs of separation anxiety, you can try setting up a reward system to encourage bravery at drop off. Having their favorite snack after school or even bringing a comfort item like a stuffed animal or blanket can be a great comfort.
Along with this, make sure you’re creating a positive environment around school. When you talk about it, make sure you sound cheerful and excited. Remind them of all the good and happy things that come from school.
5. Validate
The final and arguably most important thing you can do for your child if they’re feeling anxious about going back to school is to validate their feelings. Acknowledge that like trying anything new, it can be scary at first but over time it becomes easy and fun. Encourage open conversations and give them a safe space to talk about their feelings and fears.
While back-to-school nerves are very common, if this anxiety persists past a few weeks, it may be time to consult with an expert and seek intervention.
If your child is experiencing back-to-school anxiety and needs help,, please reach out to us. Our team of therapists is here to provide support and guidance. We look forward to connecting with you.
