What Every Parent Needs to Know About Back-to-School Anxiety in Young Kids

August Back to School Time is coming up pretty fast! Are you ready for the emotional stuff?

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Back-to-school season is like riding a rollercoaster—exciting, nerve-wracking, and sometimes full of unexpected turns. While some kids sprint into school with smiles and sparkly backpacks, others quietly carry a big ol’ invisible backpack full of worries.

As a school counselor, tutor, and educator with 20+ years of experience, I’ve seen it all—and I want to reassure you that back-to-school anxiety is super common (especially in our youngest learners). The good news? You’re not alone, and there are plenty of ways to support your child emotionally—and academically—through the transition.

Common Signs of Back-to-School Anxiety

Kids don’t always have the words to tell you they’re anxious. Instead, they show you. Here are a few red flags to look out for:

• Complaints of stomachaches or headaches—especially right before school.

• Irritability or meltdowns over small things (socks not feeling “right” is a classic).

• Sleep trouble—either can’t fall asleep or waking up in the middle of the night.

• Clinginess—not wanting to leave your side.

• Avoidance or sudden disinterest in school activities they once enjoyed.

• Tummy butterflies and tearful goodbyes at drop-off.

Why Is This Happening?

Big transitions can feel overwhelming for little brains. New teachers, new routines, new classmates—it’s a lot. Kids with ADHD, autism, or high sensitivity may feel it even more intensely.

And honestly? Even grown-ups get back-to-school jitters. (Tell me you haven’t had a “forgot your locker combo” dream recently. 😅)

💕 How You Can Support Your Child Emotionally

You don’t have to fix everything overnight—but you can create a soft landing spot for your child as they navigate this new season. This will help your student's transition so much!

Here are a few gentle ways to help:

🗓️ 1. Start the routine early

Ease into the school routine a week or two in advance. Earlier bedtimes, lunch practice, and even morning dry runs can make a huge difference.

📚 2. Validate their feelings

Instead of saying “You’ll be fine!” try “I know it’s hard to go back after summer. I’m proud of you for being brave.” Kids feel safer when they know their feelings are seen. (THIS HELPS SO MUCH!)

🎨 3. Use visuals and schedules

Visual routines, countdowns, and picture charts help kids see what’s coming next. Less mystery = less anxiety. This also works wonders with neurodivergent students in the classroom as well.

🧸 4. Practice separation in small ways

If your child struggles to separate from you, try leaving them with a trusted adult for short periods leading up to the big day. The slow transition will help your student acclimate to the new classroom environment.

🧘 5. Teach calming strategies

Breathing techniques, calming jars, fidget toys, or a special mantra (like “I am safe and loved”) can help kids feel more in control.

🌈 How Reach Your Peake Helps Ease Back-to-School Stress

At Reach Your Peake, we don’t just tutor—we support the whole child. My online sessions are personalized, playful, and rooted in emotional support. Whether your child is shy, anxious, neurodivergent, or just needs a confidence boost, we meet them exactly where they are. Our virtual classroom is a judgment-free zone filled with positive reinforcement, flexible pacing, and plenty of smiles. 💻✨

And because I have a background in school counseling and teaching, I know how to sneak emotional learning into academics (like a broccoli brownie—surprisingly sweet and good for you!). Best of luck to your students for the 2025-26 school year! Please reach out for specific supports for your student!