As summer ends and a new school year begins, many children and teens experience feelings of stress, nervousness or worry. Back-to-school anxiety is very common and can affect students of all ages. New teachers, changing routines, academic expectations, friendships and extracurricular activities can all contribute to anxiety during this transition.
Common Signs of Back-to-School Anxiety
Anxiety can look different in every child. Some children may openly share their worries, while others may show signs through physical symptoms or behavior changes.
Common signs may include:
- Trouble sleeping
- Headaches or stomachaches
- Irritability or mood changes
- Difficulty concentrating
- Avoiding conversations about school
- Increased clinginess in younger children
- Withdrawal or isolation in older children and teens
For many students, these feelings will often improve once school routines become familiar again. Recognizing signs early can help families provide support before anxiety becomes overwhelming.
Ways Families Can Help
While some nervousness is normal, there are tools that families can utilize to help quell those “back-to-school jitters” and help their children feel more prepared, supported and confident as they return to school.
1. Rebuild Routines Early
Our bodies LOVE routine! When we practice consistent and healthy routines, we set ourselves up to thrive. Start adjusting sleep schedules, mealtimes and morning routines one to two weeks before school begins. Predictable routines help children feel more secure and prepared.
2. Encourage Open Conversations
Ask children what they are excited or nervous about with the upcoming school year. Allow them to talk openly without judgment. Listening calmly and validating their feelings can help reduce anxiety.
Helpful questions include:
- “What are you most excited about this year?”
- “Is there anything making you nervous?”
- “What would help you feel more prepared?”
3. Focus on Preparation, Not Perfection
Remind children and teens that it is okay to feel nervous and that no school year is perfect. Success looks different for everyone so encourage realistic goals such as:
- Doing their best
- Staying organized
- Asking for help when needed
- Making healthy friendships
4. Practice Healthy Stress Relief
Teaching children healthy coping strategies can help them manage stress throughout the school year.
Helpful tools include:
- Deep breathing
- Physical activity
- Getting outside
- Journaling
- Listening to music
- Taking breaks from screens
- Talking with trusted adults
5. Avoid Overscheduling
The start of the school year can quickly become overwhelming. Make sure children and teens have enough time for sleep, rest, family time and activities they enjoy.
Supporting Middle and High School Students
Middle and high school students often face additional pressures related to academics, sports, friendships, social media and future planning. Anxiety in teens may appear as irritability, withdrawal, mood changes, avoidance of previously enjoyed activities or increased worry about performance.
Parents can support teens by:
- Normalizing stress and reminding them they are not alone
- Encouraging healthy balance between school and activities
- Monitoring the impact of social media and online pressures
- Keeping communication open with simple daily check-ins
Even older teens, who want independence, still benefit from regular emotional support and connection with trusted adults.
Behavioral Health Support Available in Our Clinics
Our clinics understand that emotional and mental health are important parts of a child’s overall well-being. Behavioral Health Managers (BHMs) are available within our clinics to support pediatric patients and families who may be experiencing anxiety, stress, emotional challenges or difficulty adjusting during the school year.
BHMs work alongside your child’s pediatric care team to help provide guidance, coping strategies, and support for emotional and behavioral concerns. Early support can make a meaningful difference in helping children and teens build healthy coping skills and succeed both academically and socially.
Families interested in learning more about behavioral health services can schedule a visit with their child’s pediatrician for more information.
When to Seek Additional Help
Some anxiety is expected during school transitions, but additional support may be needed if anxiety:
- Interferes with daily activities
- Causes ongoing physical symptoms
- Leads to school or activity avoidance
- Significantly affects sleep or mood
- Impacts friendships or academics
If concerns continue, families should consider reaching out to their child’s pediatrician or a mental health professional for additional guidance and support.