Oak Hill, WV (WOAY) For some children, back-to-school season is a time filled with anxiety, as the transition brings several new changes in routine. According to former Monongalia County WVU Extension Service agent Eric Murphy, it’s important to acknowledge your child’s anxiety and find the root of the issue to help them adjust.
Signs of school anxiety can be physical, emotional, or behavioral, such as complaints about an upset stomach or becoming unusually clingy, especially for young children. Older kids may display sudden outbursts or become withdrawn.
Murphy says that preparing your kids and preventing anxiety is key. Being positive, uplifting, and supportive about the new year can help motivate them to look forward to it. You can also help them feel prepared by practicing a goodbye routine, making sure they have all the school supplies they need, or sending encouraging notes with them in their lunchbox or backpack.
If positive reinforcement and discussion don’t help, or if anxiety continues to affect your child’s enjoyment in other areas of life, it may be time to seek professional help to teach relaxation and coping skills.
