The First Day of School: Tips to Ease Your Child's Anxiety

As kids pack up their new backpacks, sharpen their pencils, and try on their new fall clothes, most start to get excited about the first day of school. While the beginning of the school year is an exciting time and represents a new start, some kids may feel anxious about the unknown. A new teacher, new classmates, or a new school can cause a lot of stress and anxiety. Using some simple strategies, parents can help prepare their children for the first day and ease their concerns.

private school boy in classroom, uniform

Talking to Kids About the First Day of School

Start with the basics

When children are well rested and have full tummies, they are better prepared for a busy day. Start adjusting bedtime and wake up times a week or more in advance so the child has time to adjust to the new school routine. A healthy and filling breakfast starts children off on the right foot. When these needs are met, parents and kids can work together to tackle school anxiety.

Talk it through

Allow your child to talk about his feelings. Help him list the specific things that he is worrying about. Instead of brushing aside worry, let him know it is natural to be nervous and you will help him adjust to a new school. Try reading some age-appropriate children’s books about the first day of school jitters.

Discuss the plan

Walk your child through what she can expect on the first day. Discuss her transportation and daily schedule at school. If the child has specific worries, try to address when that will happen during the day. For some, role playing can help them feel more comfortable. Begin the day as you would a typical school morning. Prepare breakfast, get dressed, and pack bags as if you are going to school. Act out the child’s day and “play school”. Take turns being the teacher. Making it a game can make the child more comfortable when the real day approaches. Learn more in our exclusive interviews about the Charlottesville City Schools and the Albemarle County Schools.

Prepping For the First Day of School

Take a tour

If the school has a “Meet the Teacher” night, take advantage of this time to show the child the classroom, become familiar with the surroundings, and introduce them to the teacher. This will allow the child to feel more comfortable in their surroundings on the first day.

Encourage friendships

When a child recognizes a friendly face in the classroom, it can make them feel much more at ease. Encourage your child to meet other children in the neighborhood that will be in the same class. Host a playdate or a class picnic for the kids.

Discuss with teacher

If anxiety persists after the first few days of school, contact the teacher and share your concerns. She may have some suggestions on how to deal with a student’s anxiety and will be aware of the situation. Oftentimes, a teacher who knows a child is dealing with anxiety will give them extra support in the classroom.

The first day of school can be a stressful time, rewarding your child for their bravery with a small toy, a special dessert, or a trip to their favorite park. It takes a lot of courage to try something new and it should be recognized.

Find more parenting tips and advice in the Education section of our site, including Raising a Polite Child and Tips on Being.a Great Homework Parent. For parenting tips on kids anxiety, read about Jonathan Haidt’s book, The Anxious Generation and research being done at VCU regarding stress and anxiety in the tween and teen years.

Education, Parenting

Reducing First Day of School Jitters