Returning to school after summer break can be both exciting and stressful for kids. Some children look forward to seeing their friends and trying new activities. Others might feel nervous about the changes ahead. It is normal for kids to experience back to school anxiety. At our St Petersburg, FL therapy practice, we understand how tough this transition can be for others.  In this blog, we’ll discuss common worries kids face when going back to school. Also, our child therapists will share tips to help them feel more confident and prepared.

Understanding Back to School Anxiety

It’s normal for kids to feel a mix of emotions when returning to school. These feelings can come from several sources:

Fear of the Unknown:

New teachers, classrooms, and classmates can create uncertainty.

Academic Pressure:

Worries about keeping up with schoolwork or meeting expectations can be stressful.

Social Anxiety:

Concerns about fitting in or making new friends can cause nervousness.

Separation Anxiety:

Younger children might have a hard time being away from their parents or caregivers.

Signs of Back to School Anxiety

Kids may show anxiety in different ways. They may be showing you common signs you could be missing. Look out for clues such as:

• Trouble sleeping or changes in sleep patterns

• Changes in appetite

• Frequent complaints of headaches or stomachaches

• Irritability or mood swings

• Reluctance to talk about school

• Avoidance of school-related tasks

Tips to Ease Back to School Anxiety:

Establish a Routine:

• • Start adjusting sleep schedules a week or two before school begins to help your child transition smoothly.

  • Create a morning routine that includes time for a healthy breakfast and some relaxation to start the day calmly.

  • Discuss the morning routine with your child ahead of time so they know what to expect

Visit the School:

• If possible, visit the school before it starts to help your child get familiar with the environment.
  • It can be helpful to walk around the campus together. Get them used to drop off and pick up. Find their classroom before the first day.
• Arrange a meet-and-greet with teachers or classmates to help your child feel more comfortable.

Encourage Open Communication:

• • Encourage your child to express their feelings about school worries. And listen to them without judgment.

  • Reassure them that it’s normal to feel nervous and that you’re there to support them.

Focus on Positives:

• Help your child think about the things they’re excited about, like seeing friends or joining activities they enjoy.
  • Set small, achievable goals to give them a sense of accomplishment and motivation.
• Check in on these goals with your child daily or weekly to keep them motivated.

Practice Relaxation Techniques:

• • Teach simple breathing exercises or mindfulness practices to help your child manage stress.

  • Encourage activities like drawing, reading, or listening to music as healthy ways to unwind.

Prepare Together:

• Involve your child in back-to-school preparations, such as picking out school supplies or choosing outfits.
• Create a special space for homework to make studying feel organized and comfortable.

When to Seek Professional Support

If your child’s anxiety seems overwhelming or lasts a long time… it may be time to think about getting help from a therapist. Child therapy can give your child a safe place to explore their feelings and learn ways to cope. Therapy can also help parents too. It can help you understand your child’s needs and find ways to support them.

Helping Your Child Through This Transition

Going back to school can be challenging… but with understanding and preparation, it can also be a time for growth and excitement. By acknowledging your child’s feelings and providing support, you can help them handle their anxieties. Ultimately helping them become more resilient. Remember, you and your child are not alone in this journey. Our child therapists are here to help your family thrive during this transition.

Want To Inquire About Child Therapy for Anxiety?

By seeking child therapy for your child, you can empower them. Help them gain newfound confidence and tackle those different anxieties and worries.  Start the conversation about their emotions and experiences. Creating an environment where they feel heard and understood. Together, let’s empower your child to enter back to school confident and resilient.  Follow these three simple steps to get started:

1. Contact us to schedule an appointment to begin child therapy
2. Start working with a child therapist
3. Begin seeing positive changes in your child’s symptoms.

Other Services Offered at Saible Neuropsychology

At Saible Neuropsychology, our team wants to help you or a member of your family with whatever struggle you may be facing. So in addition to helping your child cope with their grief symptoms, our team offers Child Neuropsychological Evaluations, Adult Neuropsychological Evaluations, Memory and Dementia Evaluations, Gifted Evaluations, and ADHD Evaluations. We also provide individual therapy services for children, teens,  adults, couples, and families, for depression, trauma, anxiety, and more. Be sure to check out our FAQs and Blog to learn more about us and our services!