As the new school year approaches, many children may feel nervous and worried about entering or returning to school. According to Emily O’Gorman, a child psychologist at U.Va. Health, anxiety disorders are among the most common psychiatric conditions in kids, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimating that 11% of children ages 3 to 17 have current, diagnosed anxiety.

Causes of Back-to-School Anxiety

O’Gorman notes that the reasons why children feel anxious are often related to their age. Younger children may experience anxiety over separation from a caregiver, while older children may feel anxious about big transitions, such as moving to middle or high school, or having a friend move away.

Symptoms of back-to-school anxiety can include stomach aches, headaches, trouble sleeping, bedtime resistance, and repeated questions about logistics. Parents can play a big role in soothing a child’s nerves by listening calmly and validating their emotions, while also reinforcing the child’s ability to cope with anxiety.

Helping Kids Cope with Anxiety

O’Gorman suggests that parents praise brave behavior and encourage children to face their fears. Practicing ahead of time what will happen on the first day of school can also be helpful, such as shifting bedtime and wake time, rehearsing the morning routine, visiting the school, and meeting the teacher.

It’s essential for parents to model confidence and calmness, as kids pick up on their parents’ emotions. By doing so, parents can help their children approach the new school year with confidence and resilience.

Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.