As summer winds down, many families are preparing for the school year ahead. You might be buying school supplies, adjusting sleep schedules, or planning lunch routines. But for many kids and teens, the return to school doesn’t just bring change—it brings anxiety.
If your child seems more emotional, has trouble sleeping, or complains of stomachaches as the first day approaches, it’s worth paying attention. Anxiety around school is common, and it can show up in quiet or surprising ways. The good news is there are things you can do to help.
Why the Transition to School Can Be So Stressful
Even if your child has gone to school for years, starting a new year can bring uncertainty. Here are some common reasons kids and teens feel anxious about going back to school:
Fear of the unknown
A new teacher, different classmates, a new schedule, or even a bigger building can feel overwhelming. Not knowing what to expect can increase anxiety, especially for kids who like structure and routine.
Academic pressure
Some children worry about keeping up, making mistakes, or not being “good enough.” This is especially true for kids who struggle with learning differences, attention difficulties, or perfectionism.
Social challenges
For many students, friendships are a big source of stress. They may wonder if they will have anyone to sit with, if old friendships will still feel the same, or if they will be accepted by their peers.
Separation worries
Younger children—or even older ones who have been especially close with family over the summer—might feel nervous about being apart from you during the day. This can show up as clinginess, tears, or resistance to going to school.
Sensory and emotional overwhelm
Busy hallways, loud cafeterias, and a full day of transitions can be especially difficult for kids who are sensitive to noise, stimulation, or change. For these children, just making it through the school day can feel exhausting.
How You Can Support Your Child or Teen
Start by letting your child know that their feelings make sense. Saying things like “It’s okay to feel nervous” or “Starting something new can feel hard, even for adults” can go a long way in building trust.
Practice routines before school starts. Drive by the school, talk through the schedule, or visit the building if possible. This helps reduce uncertainty and gives your child a sense of control.
Focus on what is going well. Remind your child of times they’ve handled change before, even if it was difficult at first. Celebrate small steps like packing their bag or walking into the building.
Help your child build simple coping tools. Deep breathing, grounding exercises, and having something familiar in their backpack can give them a sense of comfort.
Praise any signs of courage. Whether they’re willing to talk about their feelings, try something new, or show up even when they’re scared—these are wins worth recognizing.
When to Reach Out for Support
If your child’s anxiety is affecting their sleep, eating, or ability to function during the school day, they may need more support than you can provide on your own. That’s not a sign of failure—it’s a sign that they need a little extra help.
At Therapy with Bright Minds, we work with children, teens, and parents to manage anxiety, improve coping skills, and make school feel more manageable. We also help parents understand what’s going on beneath the behavior and respond in ways that build confidence and connection.
If you’re not sure what to do next, we’re here to guide you.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about how we can support your family.
Visit www.therapywithbrightminds.com or follow us on Instagram @therapywithbrightminds
You are not alone—and neither is your child.
