It’s perfectly normal for children to feel nervous about school from time to time. New teachers, shifting friendships, academic pressure, or even a change in routine can stir up anxiety. But how do you know if your child’s worries are typical—or a sign that something deeper needs attention?
Understanding the difference between normal school-related anxiety and more serious emotional challenges can help you respond effectively and compassionately.
- What Does Normal School Anxiety Look Like?
Mild anxiety about school often occurs at the start of a new year, after vacations, or before big tests. Common signs include:
- Temporary complaints of stomach aches or headaches
- Hesitation to go to school, especially on Mondays
- Nervous questions like “What if I forget my homework?”
- Trouble falling asleep the night before school
- Tearfulness or clinginess during drop-off (especially in younger children)
👉 These behaviors usually improve within a few days or weeks as your child adjusts.
Source: https://www.brightpathbh.com/school-anxiety-and-refusal/
- When Anxiety Becomes a Concern
If your child’s anxiety is persistent, intense, or interferes with daily life, it may be more than a passing worry. Signs of deeper struggles include:
- Frequent or severe physical symptoms (nausea, dizziness, headaches)
- Refusing to go to school for multiple days
- Panic attacks or meltdowns before school
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or hobbies
- Excessive reassurance-seeking (e.g., “Are you sure I’ll be okay?”)
- Difficulty concentrating in class or completing homework due to worry
🔴 If these signs last more than two weeks or worsen, it may be time to intervene more seriously.
- How Parents Can Support a Child With School Anxiety
✅ Listen Without Judgment
Let your child talk about what’s worrying them. Even if the concern feels small to you, it’s big to them. Avoid saying “There’s nothing to worry about”—instead say, “I hear you. That sounds tough. Let’s figure it out together.”
✅ Normalize and Name It
Help them understand that anxiety is a natural feeling. You might say:
“Everyone feels nervous sometimes, especially when things are new or uncertain.”
✅ Establish Predictable Routines
Routines offer comfort and reduce uncertainty. Create consistent wake-up, bedtime, and homework schedules. Visual schedules can help younger kids feel more in control.
✅ Teach Coping Strategies
Introduce simple tools for calming nerves:
- Deep breathing exercises
- Positive self-talk (“I can handle this. I’ve done hard things before.”)
- Small exposure steps (e.g., walking into school with you, then alone)
- When to Seek Professional Help
Consider reaching out to a school counselor, pediatrician, or child psychologist if:
- Anxiety persists beyond a few weeks
- It affects your child’s health, sleep, or learning
- They’re avoiding school altogether
- You’re feeling overwhelmed as a parent and unsure how to help
Early intervention can make a big difference. School anxiety, if unaddressed, can grow into long-term academic or emotional issues.
Source: https://www.promises.com/addiction-blog/anxiety-in-high-school/
- What Schools Can Do
Don’t hesitate to involve the school. Teachers and counselors often have helpful insights and can provide accommodations such as:
- Check-ins with a trusted adult
- Calming spaces or breaks during the day
- Adjusted workload or flexible deadlines
- Buddy systems or peer support
Teamwork between parents and school staff is key to managing anxiety successfully.
