As summer comes to a close, many children eagerly anticipate the start of a new school year, but for others, the transition can trigger significant anxiety. A recent survey found that 64% of children's worries are school-related, highlighting the prevalence of this issue. According to cognitive neuroscientist Robert Alexander, Ph.D., assistant professor of counseling and wellness at New York Institute of Technology, the beginning of a new school year disrupts many of the brain's predictions at once. “Our brains are prediction machines, and our nervous systems constantly try to anticipate what will happen next, so that we can respond appropriately and stay safe. The beginning of a new school year disrupts many of those predictions all at once—old routines are broken, expectations and environments change, children are presented with new classrooms, teachers, classmates, and other daily adjustments,” Alexander explains.
While some nervousness during transitions is developmentally normal, children who are already prone to anxiety may find returning to school especially overwhelming. Alexander emphasizes that parents should be aware of the signs, which may not always be obvious. “Children often express anxiety indirectly,” he says, noting that common signs include changes in sleep, irritability, difficulty concentrating, appetite changes, clinginess, or social withdrawal. He advises that the best way to reduce anxiety is through preparation. “Preparation helps make things more predictable and allows us to adapt to changes. Visiting the school, discussing routines, and gradually re-establishing bedtimes before classes begin can all help children feel more secure. Sleep, in particular, plays a major role in emotional regulation and stress resilience,” says Alexander.
Parents also set the emotional tone at home, and their reactions can significantly influence how children respond. “Children often look to adults for cues on how they should respond to a situation. Responding with calm confidence can send a powerful message of safety,” Alexander explains. He also recommends that children practice simple calming techniques, such as slow and controlled breathing, to manage overwhelming feelings in the moment. A simple pattern of inhaling for four seconds and exhaling for six can be effective.
However, Alexander cautions against eliminating all anxiety, as a healthy amount can foster resilience. “Confidence grows through small wins. Knowing that you can handle a situation can help you deal with future situations more effectively. When children successfully introduce themselves to a new friend, find their new classroom, or survive their first week at a new school, they learn that they are capable in those environments. But children who are prone to anxiety may need some extra help moving through those feelings successfully,” he says.
This guidance comes as families across the country prepare for the back-to-school season. By recognizing the signs of anxiety and taking proactive steps, parents can help their children navigate this transition with greater confidence. For more information and resources, visit nyit.edu.
