So many children feel anxious in school, but there is something you can do to help.
Back-to-school season is here and we can’t quite believe it. The kids will be back in the classroom before we know it, but many aren’t feeling too excited about the new school term. Many children find school quite intimidating and overwhelming. Not every pupil will skip through the school gates with a smile on their face. A lot of children find school extremely intense, especially those who are anxious, or those with anxiety disorders. If you’re concerned about your anxious child returning to school then why not introduce something into their school schedule that will help their worries?
According to experts, teaching your children coping mechanisms for anxious situations is one of the best things a parent can do before the school term begins. One method won’t work for everyone, but one that has risen in popularity, with all age groups, is the worry journal. Some children may not be comfortable talking to their peers, teachers, or even their closest friends about their feelings and struggles, but they may find it helpful to write them down. That way they’re processing the emotions by pouring them out onto the page.
“Not every pupil will skip through the school gates with a smile on their face.”
Something like a worry journal is also really easy to carry around in school as it blends in perfectly with their books and other notebooks. Mental health charity Young Minds says writing out your worries is one of the best ways for children to process their emotions. “Your child can use a notebook to jot down worries, which can stop them from becoming overwhelming.”
Perhaps tell the teacher that they have this journal so they’re aware of what is going on with your child. Keeping everyone in the loop will also ensure you’re all doing your best to help calm your child’s fears and worries. It’s also worth remembering that being anxious is a normal feeling. No child should be judged for feeling anxious, especially by their parents.
Make sure they simply feel loved, supported, and understood rather than shamed and judged.
