Tips for Back-to-School Anxiety

We are happy to work with our partner, College Park Family Care to bring our readers this timely content.

Let’s face it. Back-to-school anxiety is a common malady for all of us, especially our kids.  Whether it’s a sudden tummy ache, a temper flare, surly attitude or even a downright refusal to let go of your leg at drop-off, children and teens alike can suffer from nerves at the start of the school year. For little ones, school marks a new beginning, and maybe the first time away from mom and dad, while teens head back into the world of cliques, the horrid possibility of sitting alone at lunch, piles of homework and so much more.

Some back-to-school jitters are normal, but there are times when it might warrant a little more attention. How do you know when it’s more than just nerves and how can you ease the transition back into school? We talked with family practice physician Caroline Martin, DO, of College Park Family Care Center for insights. 

Is everyone anxious about going back to school?

Back-to-school anxiety is very normal, Dr. Martin assures us, and can strike even the most self-confident, secure kid at least a little.  

From the first morning of kindergarten to the last day of college, school is chockful of potential stressors – academic, social, even physical – for every age of student. Although it may be more common in kids with a history of anxiety, it really can affect most anyone to some degree.    

“Any time a student experiences a time of transition – i.e. going back to school, switching schools, best friend moves away – this can be a trigger for stress and anxiety,” Dr. Martin explains. “It can occur at any school age, from preschool through college, and beyond. As a parent, it’s important to recognize that anxiety may be happening and step in, and if necessary, seek help and guidance from a trusted provider.”

How do you recognize back-to-school “nerves?”

The signs of anxiety vary by age. Younger children may be more attached than usual to mom and dad. They may seem worried about the logistics and details of the day – how will they get to school? Will the bus be waiting for them? Will they be able to find their class and teacher? Will their supplies be there? Chances are if kids express concern about what we consider “little” details, they’re feeling a bit anxious.   

As any parent of teens knows, their behavior can sometimes be hard to diagnose, but there are some tells of back-to-school anxiety. 

“In older children and teens, being anxious may come across as mood swings or erratic, disruptive behavior,” says Dr. Martin. “Or they may withdraw or want to be alone. Keep an eye out for behavior that doesn’t seem normal.”  

How do we know when normal jitters become something more serious?

There are times, Dr. Martin says, when you want to make an appointment to discuss back-to-school anxiety with your child’s doctor.  In general, if the anxiety doesn’t subside after the first few weeks, you see your child’s behavior regress, anxiety begins to affect his or her life even outside of school, and he or she begins to refuse to participate in activities, etc., you may want to consult with the doctor.

How you can help calm back-to-school anxiety?

Regardless of the child’s age, Dr. Martin, says, there are a few things you can do to help ease the transition back to school. 

“The most important component of addressing back-to-school anxiety is to listen to your child,” she stresses. “Pay attention to his or her behaviors and to what he or she is telling you, and look for opportunities to be around your child when interacting with others. Once you suspect anxiety may be an issue, talk with your child about the upcoming transition and what it means.”

Other tips:

  • Keep your anxiety to yourself. Many of us have a tendency to over-commit and stress ourselves out as we start school. Try not to pass your worries and stress along to your child.
  • Encourage socialization. Having friends over before school starts or scheduling play groups reminds your child that he or she is not going to just be among strangers.
  • Practice the routine. Drive the carpool route and visit school. Walk the halls which may seem scary to your child. Find his or her classroom, the bathroom, the cafeteria, lockers, etc. so it becomes more familiar.
  • Enlist support. You may want to discuss your child’s concerns with teachers, coaches, or the school nurse. 
  • Practice behaviors that will be important once school begins. Give your kids plenty of time to feel prepared (i.e. purchase supplies early, encourage summer reading to be completed). 
  • Remember, you’re the adult. It can be frustrating when your kiddo balks at getting on the bus, or throws a royal tantrum when you start to leave. But if you get frustrated, the situation only gets worse.  
  • Sleep is important. Summer often shakes us out a good sleep routine. A few weeks before school starts, get back into the bedtime schedule you intend to follow with school.  Tired kids are anxious kids, so remove that with good bedtime habits.
  • LISTEN, especially to your teens. It’s a gift when your teen confides in you, so treat it as such. Who doesn’t remember the fear of being left out or considered “different,” and the thousand other social panic possibilities. Listen without judgment and help your teen work through worries.   

“Parents can help guide their children through this experience by partnering with their family physician as a resource,” says Dr. Martin. “By addressing a child’s emotional health, the well-being of the whole household will improve.” 

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