10/30/2025
Children often have mixed feelings about returning to the classroom after summer break. Transitions are difficult for us all, but are especially difficult for young children.
In fact, a recent survey showed that 66% of parents reported that their children are anxious about returning to school (Loades et al., 2020).
While many of these anxious children will do just fine with a little encouragement from loved ones, others will need extra support. Here’s how to help:
1) Talk to your child about how they are feeling about the upcoming school year. What is one thing they are excited about? What is one thing they are nervous about? What is one thing they are wondering about?
2) If your child has expressed a lot of worries, validate your child’s worry AND encourage them to face their fears (e.g. “I know you’re feeling worried about going back to school. You haven’t been there in quite some time. But I know you can handle this! I’m here to help you”)
3) Talk to your child about what to expect on the first day (if you are not sure, you can reach out to the teacher to get more information). Write out the schedule for them and have them add pictures or create a book together describing what school will be like.
4) Drive or walk by the school a few times prior to the first day. Meet the teacher or other children in their classroom before school starts, if possible.
5) Read children’s books with your child in which the characters overcome their worries.
If your child continues to show anxiety about school or is refusing to attend school, consult with a mental health professional for help! Research shows that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is highly effective for treating school refusal (Heyne et al., 2002).
All information provided by Parenting Translator Foundation — parentingtranslator.org
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