As the new school year approaches, enrollment offers and back-to-school supplies begin flooding in. These trigger a wide range of emotions for children, parents, and teachers—feelings of love and excitement mixed with nervousness, anxiety, and stress. The excitement of a new school experience and shopping for school supplies can be mentally overwhelming. Tawazon presents 10 strategies and tips to help manage back-to-school anxiety:
Children often build most of their enthusiasm from parents and those around them. When they observe stress and anxiety in their surroundings about the upcoming school period, their own anxiety grows. If parents act with excitement and positivity, the environment becomes a supportive one free of stress and anxiety.
Additionally, you can spark excitement in younger kids by letting them choose their school bag or supplies, and older children might feel more eager if they get to pick their school clothes. It’s also helpful to accompany them to school or the bus on the first day to reduce anxiety and boost their enthusiasm.
As the school year nears, create space for open conversations with your children about their biggest fears and what causes them. Avoid generic phrases like “No need to worry” or “You’ll be fine.” Instead, show empathy and aim for honesty while helping them process and overcome those fears.
Anxiety and stress vary by age. Older kids may worry about changing classes or making new friends, while younger ones may feel anxious due to separation from parents.
Before the school year begins, it’s essential to build independent skills. Teach children how to tie their shoes, zip jackets, and open/close lunchboxes. Also, encourage them to ask teachers for help when needed. These skills prevent frustration and reduce anxiety in the classroom.
Students’ routines often shift during summer break—bedtimes change, meals become irregular, and there are no school responsibilities. A week or two before school starts, implement a structured routine: earlier bedtimes and consistent wake-up times. This will help ease anxiety and create smoother school mornings.
No matter your child’s age, staying in touch with the school and staff is key to easing anxiety. Communicate with teachers about your child’s emotional state so they can provide appropriate support in the classroom.
One of the best ways to manage back-to-school anxiety is through meditation and relaxation techniques suitable for all ages. Children can benefit from weekly meditation sessions to practice calming techniques and regulate their emotions through breathing exercises and relaxation methods.
Before school begins, review the plans with your children. Parents can look through the school handbook and help children understand the rules, routines, and class schedules. This preparation can significantly reduce anxiety.
The fear of the unknown amplifies anxiety. Since students may not know what to expect, visual reminders can help—such as notes about bedtime, brushing teeth, or packing school bags. Teachers can also support students by sharing visible class routines: morning activities, P.E., breaks, reading time, or presentations. These visual aids help children form a clear mental picture of their school day, reducing fear of the unknown.
Separation from parents, even if brief, can be tough—especially for younger kids. Before school starts, develop a special goodbye ritual such as a handshake, a kiss, or a hug to make parting easier.
Organization is one of the top tips for reducing back-to-school anxiety. Create separate spaces for studying and playing, organize school bags and books. These habits help kids become organized even while at school.
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