It's that time of year again, when parents are scrambling to get school supplies and uniforms,
while kids are experiencing all sorts of emotions about going back to school. For some, it's the
excitement of seeing friends again and the prospect of learning new things. But for others, it's
the dread of homework, tests, and social situations that trigger feelings of anxiety. As a parent,
it's tough to watch your child suffer, but fortunately, there are strategies you can use to help
your child cope with back-to-school anxiety. In this blog post, we'll explore some of these
strategies so that you can help your child start the school year with confidence.

1. Validate your child's feelings
For starters, it's important to acknowledge your child's feelings of anxiety and let them know
that it's normal to feel that way. Sometimes, kids think there's something wrong with them for
feeling anxious, and this can make it worse. Let your child know that you understand how they
feel, and that you're there to support them. This can help your child feel more secure and less
alone.

2. Help your child prepare
Sometimes, anxiety stems from uncertainty about what to expect. To ease your child's worries,
help them prepare for the school year. This might involve visiting the school and meeting the
teachers, practicing getting up early and going to bed at a reasonable time, and reviewing the
class schedule. By doing these things, your child will feel more confident and capable of
handling whatever challenges come their way.

3. Teach relaxation techniques
Anxiety can manifest physically, with symptoms such as racing heart, sweating, and shallow
breathing. To help your child manage these symptoms, teach them relaxation techniques such
as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or visualization. These techniques can help
your child feel calmer and more in control when they're feeling anxious.

4. Foster a positive mindset
Negative self-talk can exacerbate anxiety, so it's important to foster a positive mindset in your
child. Encourage them to focus on their strengths and accomplishments, remind them that
mistakes are a natural part of learning, and help them set realistic goals for the school year. By
emphasizing the positive, you can help your child build resilience and confidence in their
abilities.

5. Seek professional help if necessary
Finally, if your child's anxiety is severe or interfering with their daily life, consider seeking
professional help. A therapist or counselor can work with your child to develop coping skills and
strategies to manage their anxiety. This can be an invaluable resource for both you and your
child.
Back-to-school anxiety is a common experience for many kids, but it doesn't have to be
debilitating. By validating your child's feelings, helping them prepare, teaching relaxation
techniques, fostering a positive mindset, and seeking professional help if necessary, you can
help your child cope with anxiety and start the school year on the right foot. Remember, you're
not alone in this. As a parent, you have the power to help your child build the resilience and
confidence they need to succeed in school and beyond.