Back-to-school anxiety is common: Doctor offers tips on helping kids deal with nervousness

August 17, 2026 - 05:01

As summer winds down, many children feel a mix of excitement and dread about the new school year. According to a child psychologist speaking with WTOP, this kind of anxiety is completely normal, but parents can take practical steps to ease the transition.

The key is to start early and keep communication open. Instead of waiting until the night before, begin adjusting sleep schedules a week or two ahead. Talk about what your child is looking forward to, but also give them space to name their worries without judgment. Sometimes simply saying, "It makes sense you feel nervous," is more powerful than trying to fix the problem.

The doctor also suggests visiting the school building or playground before the first day, especially for younger kids. For older students, reviewing their class schedule and walking through the route to school can reduce uncertainty. Another useful trick is to plan a small, concrete goal for the first day, like finding a new friend at lunch or talking to one teacher. This shifts focus away from vague fear.

Parents should watch for signs of deeper distress, such as stomachaches, trouble sleeping, or sudden clinginess. If those symptoms last more than a few weeks after school starts, it may be worth checking in with a pediatrician or school counselor. But for most kids, a little patience and a lot of listening will go a long way. Remind them that everyone feels nervous sometimes, and that courage is not about being unafraid, but about moving forward anyway.