How Parents Can Assist Children in Navigating Back-to-School Anxiety

Growing up, I was quite anxious, which may seem surprising to those who've seen me speak publicly. Yet, anxiety is common in children and, in some form, affects almost every child.

Before the pandemic, research indicated that about 7% of children suffered from diagnosable anxiety disorders that disrupted their daily lives. Furthermore, 20% faced occasional anxiety that wasn't severe enough to be labeled as a clinical disorder. It's important to note that all children experience anxiety occasionally.

Many experts observed an increase in children's anxiety during and after the pandemic. This could be attributed to lockdowns, which separated kids from their peers and altered their routines.

From my years studying children's mental health, I know that consistency is key to curbing anxiety. Predictability means having a routine: night sleep, morning wake-up, breakfast with cornflakes, school, after-school activities, and dinner with family. For instance, in Louise Fitzhugh's "Harriet the Spy," Harriet always packs a tomato sandwich for school. She doesn't crave variety and is content with her constant choice.

This fall, many children may grapple with anxiety, which could mingle with feelings of excitement or shyness. Here are suggestions for parents to mitigate their children's back-to-school anxiety:

1. Open a Dialogue: Ask your children about their feelings towards school. Look for signs like headaches, insomnia, frequent "what if" questions, irritability, undue concern about future events, trouble focusing, and illogical fears. Delve deeper to understand the root of these behaviors.

2. Promote Outdoor Activities: Encourage children to play outside or engage in unstructured play. Being outdoors and free play can be therapeutic, allowing kids to process their emotions without restrictions.

3. Monitor Digital Usage: Post-pandemic, more children are on digital devices and social media. Research suggests that excessive screen time can be linked to anxiety. Be mindful of their digital habits.

4. Strengthen Family Bonds: Family connections anchor children during tough times. Engaging in family activities like board games, walks, or dinners can be comforting.

5. Provide Distractions: While it's not a cure, distractions can offer relief. Discussing activities like watching TV or reading can provide a temporary respite from their anxious feelings.

6. Seek Professional Help:  If your child's anxiety hampers their daily activities for an extended period, consult a pediatrician or family doctor. They're equipped to offer the necessary support.

Back-to-school season usually means shopping for supplies, but it's equally crucial to be attuned to your children's emotional needs. Proactive measures and early intervention can pave the way for a smoother start to the school year.