A new school year comes with lots of changes. Even kids who enjoy school can feel worried about things like fitting in, having a new teacher, or keeping up with schoolwork.
For younger children, the biggest concern is often being away from their parents or comfort zones. Older kids and teens may worry more about grades, friendships, or social pressures.
Signs of anxiety in kids
“Kids don't always come right out and say they're stressed,” explains Tara Mitchell, PhD, clinical psychologist at Carilion Children’s. “Anxiety often shows up in physical, emotional, or behavioral ways.” Some common signs include:
- Complaining of stomachaches or headaches
- Having trouble sleeping
- Being more irritable than usual
- Wanting to stay home
- Becoming extra clingy
- Having trouble concentrating
- Losing interest in activities they normally enjoy
Sometimes a kid who says they don't want to go to school isn't trying to avoid learning—they may be feeling overwhelmed or anxious.
How parents can help
Get back into a routine
Predictable routines help kids feel secure and make the first week less of a shock.
A week or 2 before school starts, start shifting bedtimes, wake-up times, and meal schedules back to school hours. Have your child do a “test run” one morning to practice getting up and out the door on time.
Talk it out
Ask your child how they're feeling about the new school year. Try open-ended questions like:
- "What are you most excited about this year?"
- "Is there anything you're worried about?"
- "What do you think the first day will be like?"
Listen carefully, let them know their feelings are normal, and try not to project your own worries or fears.
Give them some control
Kids often feel less anxious when they have some control over the situation. As you’re gearing up for a new year, let them help:
- Pick out their backpack or school supplies
- Choose their first-day outfit
- Plan lunch and snack choices
- Organize their school materials
Help troubleshoot
Talk with your child about any specific worries they have and help them problem solve. For example, if they’re worried about forgetting their locker combination, help them come up with ways to remember it or a special place to write it down.
“Another common worry is getting lost in a new school,” says Tara. “Visiting the school ahead of time and walking to all their classrooms can help kids feel more prepared for the first day.”
When to get extra help
It’s completely normal for kids to have some back-to-school jitters the first few days or weeks. But extra help may be needed if your child's anxiety:
- Continues for several weeks
- Causes frequent physical symptoms
- Makes it difficult for them to attend school or enjoy daily activities
- Affects friendships or family life
If stress and anxiety is making daily life difficult, talk with your child's pediatrician, school counselor, or a mental health professional.
