As children return to school, experts emphasise the need for parents to distinguish normal nervousness from deeper anxiety, advising supportive strategies and professional help if symptoms persist.
The start of a new school year can stir excitement, but for many children it also brings real nerves. Emily O’Gorman, a child psychologist at U.Va. Health, told WTOP that anxiety disorders are common in children, but she said a short burst of worry about school is often a normal response to change rather than a sign of a deeper problem. She described back-to-school anxiety as “subclinical”, meaning it usually does not amount to a diagnosis.
The sources of that anxiety often vary by age. O’Gorman said younger children are more likely to worry about separating from a parent or caregiver, while older students may struggle with bigger transitions such as moving to middle school or high school, or even changes in friendships. Common signs include stomach aches, headaches, poor sleep, clinginess, irritability, repeated questions about pick-up plans and bedtime resistance. Harvard Health and Johns Hopkins Medicine both note that constant reassurance-seeking, sleep disruption and avoidance of school-related tasks can also be warning signs.
Parents can help most by responding with calm reassurance, not by trying to dismiss the fear. O’Gorman told WTOP that the most effective approach is to acknowledge the feeling while expressing confidence that the child can cope. She suggested pairing acceptance with encouragement, praising brave behaviour and practising school routines ahead of time, including earlier bedtimes, morning routines, school visits and meetings with teachers. Johns Hopkins Medicine and Cleveland Clinic also recommend gradual routine changes, familiar playdates and a parent’s calm example to help children feel safer.
Experts say some nervousness should ease as children settle in, but symptoms that linger or intensify deserve attention. O’Gorman advised that ongoing stomach aches, headaches or sleep problems should first be checked by a paediatrician to rule out medical causes. If worry continues beyond the first few weeks of school or begins to interfere with daily life, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Harvard Health and Cleveland Clinic all suggest seeking professional help.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
