5 Tips to Help Your Child with School Anxiety

Does the thought of school leave your child feeling anxious and overwhelmed? From reluctance at the breakfast table to tearful goodbyes, school anxiety can manifest in subtle yet impactful ways.

It’s exhausting to battle every morning to get your kiddo off to school, but there are a few parenting tips you can start today to help your child overcome school anxiety.

I’m Liz Blaha, Child & Adolescent Therapist at Kid Matters Counseling, and in this article, we’ll delve into five practical and empowering tips to help your child overcome their school anxiety.

First, establish a daily routine.

Creating a structured routine can give your child a sense of stability and predictability. Set specific times for waking up, getting ready for school, and doing homework – and stick to it!

By instilling a consistent routine, parents and caregivers can empower children to navigate their daily lives with greater ease, diminishing the anxiety that often stems from uncertainty and the unknown. This newfound sense of control, coupled with the familiarity of a predictable schedule, fosters a sense of calm and security, allowing children to blossom emotionally and thrive in all aspects of their lives.

Second, foster open communication.

When it comes to school-related concerns, open communication becomes even more paramount. School, with its daily interactions, academic pressures, and social dynamics, can be a breeding ground for a range of emotions, from excitement and enthusiasm to anxiety and fear.

Creating a safe and non-judgmental space where your child feels comfortable expressing their feelings about school is essential. Approach their concerns with an open mind, free from criticism or dismissal.

Active listening is key. Instead of simply offering solutions, focus on understanding their perspective, validating their emotions, and letting them know that their feelings are important and understood.

Third, teach coping strategies.

In the face of anxiety, it’s crucial to empower your child with effective coping strategies that can help them navigate these challenging moments and maintain emotional equilibrium. Start by equipping your child with a toolkit of practical strategies to manage their anxiety, allowing them to approach school with greater resilience and confidence.

Deep breathing exercises, visualization techniques, and mindfulness activities are among the powerful tools that can help your child calm their mind and relax their body when anxiety arises. These techniques offer a sense of control and empower children to manage their emotions effectively.

Next, provide homework support.

Schoolwork can become a source of stress and anxiety, particularly when children face difficulties or feel overwhelmed by the demands of their assignments.

To help your child navigate these challenges and maintain their emotional equilibrium, offering assistance with school assignments can be a valuable support strategy. By breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks and creating a structured and organized workspace, you can help your child approach their work with greater focus and confidence.

And finally, collaborate with school staff.

Initiating open and honest conversations with your child’s teacher or school counselor is an essential step in addressing their anxiety and identifying potential support needs. By sharing your child’s concerns, behaviors, and any strategies that have been helpful at home, you can provide valuable insights to school staff and promote a shared understanding of your child’s unique needs.

Together with school staff, explore potential accommodations or modifications that can be implemented in the classroom to reduce anxiety and enhance your child’s learning experience. By working as a cohesive team, you can create a supportive environment that fosters your child’s academic success and overall well-being.

Remember, each child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient and adaptable as you try different strategies. With your love and support, your child can overcome school anxiety and flourish academically and emotionally.

And if you need additional support, schedule an appointment with us today. Together, we’ll navigate this journey and empower your child to reach their full potential.