How To Ease A Child's Worries About Going To School

Summer is winding down and school is starting up again across the country. It can be an exciting time for kids, but it can also be a little nerve-wracking. If you have a young child, they might not know what to expect. 

Even if your child is a bit older, they might have reservations about the new school year. Maybe they’re not sure how they will make new friends, or they’re intimidated by their class schedule. 

We all tend to fear the unknown, and worries about school are no different. 

Thankfully, there are things you can do to ease your child’s worries about school and provide them reassurance and comfort as they head to class this year. 

Establish a Routine

Everyone needs a routine, but it’s especially important for kids and teenagers. Ideally, you can establish a routine for school a few weeks before classes actually start. But, even if your child has already begun the school year, it’s not too late. 

Your daily routine should include things like getting up around the same time each day, having breakfast, having a chat, etc. Find what works for you in the mornings. It will set the tone for your child’s day. 

An after-school/nighttime routine can also be a source of comfort and familiarity. That consistency is important in a child’s life and will help them feel secure even when they’re worried about school. 

Introduce Them to Their Teachers

Most teachers are all too happy to meet their students ahead of time — especially if it helps to ease their minds. If your child is nervous about a new school or teacher, schedule a walk-through of the building and let them meet at least one, if not all of the teachers they’ll interact with throughout the year. 

Having that little bit of familiarity before they start the school year can make a big difference in their confidence. They’ll feel more comfortable around the teacher and more self-assured that they can make their way around the school without getting lost or feeling overwhelmed. 

Connect Them With Friends

Speaking of familiar faces, have your child connect with classmates before school starts. Set up play dates for younger kids, or go on group outings with other parents and children. It’s a great way to form relationships before school begins, so they have some familiarity in the crowd on the first day of class. 

Even having just one familiar friend can make a difference. So, help your child establish those healthy connections before the first day; they’re less likely to feel overwhelmed by the uncertainties around them. 

Listen to Them

As a parent or caregiver, one of the best things you can do for your child is to offer your support — and a listening ear. 

If they struggle in school, ensure they know their feelings are valid. Ask them what might help, and listen to their suggestions before offering some of your own. Often, your child won’t want you to “fix” things. They’ll just want to be heard. 

Reach Out for Help

If your child continues to struggle with worries or fear about going to school, it’s worth reaching out to a professional for help. Therapy can be a great way to get to the root cause of your child’s worries. Understanding those underlying causes is the best way to chip away at them. 

Therapy can also make it easier for your child to learn how to manage and eventually overcome those worries. It can be empowering and give them the confidence they need to move forward. 

So, as the school year begins, do what you can to provide consistency and support for your child. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to reach out for anxiety treatment or family therapy.