How to Help a Child With School Anxiety

For kids, starting school can be exciting, but scary. It's a big change, and it can lead to anxiety.
New teachers, new friends, even unfamiliar bulletin boards can throw your child off.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Anxiety about school is most prevalent in the first few years of school. After a couple of years of the back-to-school drill kids manage the transition much better.
   
   You can help by letting your child know what to expect. Talking about your own back-to-school experiences can give your child an idea of what's in store. Tell your child about some of your own favorite school activities, teachers, or friends. Make it clear that school does not mean less time or support from you, but offers you both a chance to share new experiences.

2. Letting your child pick out new school clothes and supplies will provide a sense of control. You can also pick out a special item from home that he or she can bring to school to feel secure (make sure that the item is ok under school rules).
   
   Taking a tour of the school and meeting with the teacher before classes start can help your child feel more at home in class.
   
   Once school has begun, talk to your child about the changes going on-both at the beginning and end of the day. Speaking in the morning will help settle nerves, and discussing the changes at night helps bring it all into focus.

3. Ask your child to focus on the good parts of the new routine. Is the teacher nice? Has he or she made a new friend? These may seem like small things, but they're not little to a grade-schooler. After the first week, plan a visit to the school. Most teachers will appreciate your involvement.

Tips & Warnings

• If your child doesn't settle down after a few months, you may want to consult with your family physician to help alleviate fears. More often than not, though, school anxiety is normal-it's a sign that things are changing. Your job is to make sure it changes for the better. Be enthusiastic and positive-and chances are your child will respond the same way.

[ecm1980]

on 6/1/2009 Good article. Sometimes it can be hard to see when our kids are struggling with school, and it's so good to talk to them and ask how they are feeling about their day. Great ideas.