Anxiety in school children is an increasingly prevalent concern affecting their emotional well-being, academic performance, and social development. While some level of anxiety is normal, persistent and excessive anxiety can hinder a child’s ability to thrive in a school environment. Understanding the root causes of anxiety in school children is essential for parents, teachers, and mental health professionals to provide the necessary support and interventions.

Common Causes of Anxiety in School Children

Academic Pressure

One of the leading causes of anxiety in school children is academic pressure. Children are often expected to excel in various subjects, participate in extracurricular activities, and meet high expectations set by teachers and parents. The fear of failure, performance anxiety, and the pressure to achieve high grades can lead to overwhelming stress.

A child struggling with math might develop a fear of failure, leading to avoidance behaviors such as skipping homework or pretending to be sick to miss class. Encouraging a growth mindset, where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities, can help alleviate the pressure children feel. Teachers and parents should focus on effort rather than just results.

Social Challenges and Peer Pressure

School is a social environment where children interact with peers daily. Social anxiety often stems from fear of judgment, rejection, or not fitting in with classmates. Peer pressure to conform to certain behaviors, appearances, or interests can exacerbate feelings of insecurity and stress.

A child who struggles to make friends may experience loneliness and anxiety about lunchtime or group activities. Teaching children social skills, encouraging inclusive play, and fostering a supportive classroom environment can help reduce social anxiety.

Bullying and Cyberbullying

Bullying, whether physical, verbal, or cyber, is a major contributor to anxiety in school children. Victims of bullying often feel helpless, fearful, and emotionally distressed. Cyberbullying, which occurs through social media and messaging apps, can be particularly damaging as it follows children beyond school hours.

A child receiving hurtful messages online may develop anxiety about attending school or interacting with peers. Schools should implement strict anti-bullying policies, and parents should monitor their children’s online activities while encouraging open communication about bullying experiences.

Separation Anxiety

Younger children, especially those in preschool and early elementary school, may experience separation anxiety when starting school. This anxiety arises from being away from familiar caregivers and adjusting to a new environment.

A child crying and clinging to a parent at school drop-off may be experiencing separation anxiety. Gradual exposure, reassurance, and consistency in routines can help ease the transition for children dealing with separation anxiety.

Learning Disabilities and Special Needs

Children with learning disabilities, ADHD, or other special needs may experience heightened anxiety due to difficulties in understanding lessons, keeping up with peers, or facing stigma.

A child with dyslexia struggling with reading aloud in class may fear embarrassment and withdraw socially. Providing individualized learning support, accommodations, and positive reinforcement can help children with learning differences feel more confident and less anxious.

Teacher-Student Relationships

A child’s relationship with their teacher plays a significant role in their emotional well-being at school. A harsh or unsupportive teacher may inadvertently increase a child’s anxiety, while a nurturing and understanding teacher can boost confidence and comfort levels.

A child who feels their teacher is intimidating may hesitate to ask for help, leading to increased academic stress. Teachers should adopt a supportive approach, offering encouragement and creating an open-door policy for students to seek help.

Overstimulation and Sensory Sensitivities

Some children, particularly those with sensory processing disorders or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), may feel overwhelmed by loud noises, crowded hallways, or bright lights in the school setting. 

A child with sensory sensitivity may experience distress during assemblies or lunchtime due to excessive noise.Schools can create quiet spaces, allow sensory breaks, and work with occupational therapists to support children with sensory sensitivities.

Family Issues and Home Environment

Stressors at home, such as parental conflict, divorce, financial struggles, or loss of a loved one, can contribute to anxiety in school children. Children often bring their worries from home into the classroom, affecting their ability to concentrate and engage.

A child whose parents are going through a divorce may exhibit signs of anxiety, such as difficulty sleeping and trouble focusing in class. Providing emotional support, counseling services, and maintaining open communication with children about their feelings can help them cope with family-related stress.

Fear of Public Speaking and Performance Anxiety

Many children experience anxiety when required to speak in front of the class or participate in performances. The fear of making mistakes, being judged, or forgetting their lines can lead to panic and avoidance.

A child dreading an oral presentation may experience stomach aches or ask to skip school on the presentation day. Gradual exposure, practice, and positive reinforcement can help children build confidence in public speaking situations.

Media Influence and Global Events

Exposure to distressing news, such as violence, pandemics, or climate change, can contribute to anxiety in school children. The constant influx of negative information through media can make children feel unsafe or overly worried about the world around them.

A child who frequently hears about school shootings on the news may develop a fear of attending school. Parents and educators should monitor media exposure, provide age-appropriate explanations, and reassure children about their safety.

Anxiety in school children stems from various factors, including academic pressure, social challenges, bullying, separation anxiety, and external stressors. Identifying the root causes of anxiety allows parents, teachers, and mental health professionals to implement strategies that promote a supportive and anxiety-free learning environment. By fostering resilience, teaching coping mechanisms, and encouraging open communication, children can develop the emotional strength needed to navigate school life with confidence and ease.

How Can Parents Help a Child with School Anxiety?

School-related anxiety can be challenging for both children and their families. Parents play a crucial role in helping children manage their worries and develop coping skills to navigate academic and social challenges. Understanding the signs of anxiety and implementing supportive strategies can make a significant difference in a child’s well-being and confidence at school.

Recognizing the Signs of Anxiety

The first step in helping a child with school anxiety is recognizing the signs. Anxiety can manifest in various ways, including:

• Frequent stomach aches or headaches with no medical explanation
• Avoidance of school or reluctance to participate in activities
• Sleep disturbances, such as nightmares or difficulty falling asleep
• Excessive worrying about schoolwork, social interactions, or test performance
• Irritability, mood swings, or frequent meltdowns before school

Creating a Safe and Open Environment

Children need a safe space to express their feelings without fear of judgment. Encourage open communication by:

• Validating their emotions rather than dismissing their worries
• Asking open-ended questions like, “Can you tell me what makes school difficult for you?”
• Listening attentively and offering reassurance without minimizing their concerns

Establishing a Consistent Routine

Children with anxiety benefit from predictability. A well-structured routine can reduce uncertainty and provide a sense of security. Key aspects of a helpful routine include:

• Setting regular wake-up and bedtime schedules
• Preparing school materials the night before to minimize morning stress
• Creating a calming morning routine with time for breakfast and relaxation

Teaching Coping Techniques

Providing children with tools to manage anxiety can help them feel more in control. Some effective coping strategies include:

• Deep breathing exercises: Teaching slow, controlled breathing techniques to reduce stress
• Visualization: Encouraging children to imagine a safe and happy place when they feel anxious
• Positive self-talk: Replacing negative thoughts with encouraging affirmations (e.g., “I can handle this.”)
• Mindfulness activities: Practicing simple mindfulness exercises to stay present and calm

Working with Teachers and School Staff

Collaborating with teachers and school counselors can ensure that children receive the necessary support at school. Parents should:

• Communicate concerns with teachers and school personnel
• Discuss accommodations such as extended test time or a quiet place to de-stress
• Encourage gradual exposure to anxiety-inducing situations, such as speaking in class

Encouraging Social Interactions

For children who experience social anxiety, developing friendships and positive relationships at school can be beneficial. Parents can help by:

• Setting up playdates with classmates in a comfortable setting
• Encouraging participation in group activities or clubs aligned with the child’s interests
• Teaching social skills and confidence-building exercises

Limiting Media Exposure and Reassuring Safety

If anxiety stems from external factors like news or social media, parents should:

• Monitor the child’s exposure to distressing news stories
• Provide age-appropriate explanations and reassurance about safety
• Encourage positive conversations about real-world issues without inducing fear

Seeking Professional Support When Needed

If school anxiety becomes overwhelming and begins to interfere with daily life, professional guidance may be necessary. Parents should consider consulting:

• School counselors or psychologists for in-school support
• Licensed therapists who specialize in childhood anxiety
• Pediatricians for advice on managing anxiety-related physical symptoms

Helping a child with school anxiety requires patience, understanding, and a proactive approach. By creating a supportive home environment, teaching coping strategies, and working with educators, parents can empower their children to manage their anxiety and thrive in the school setting. With the right support, children can build resilience and gain the confidence needed to navigate academic and social challenges successfully.

What Are the Signs of Anxiety in School-Aged Children?

Anxiety in school-aged children can manifest in various ways, often making it challenging for parents and teachers to recognize. While occasional nervousness is normal, persistent anxiety may interfere with a child’s ability to function in school and daily life. Identifying the signs early can help children receive the necessary support and interventions.

Physical Symptoms of Anxiety

Children experiencing anxiety often display physical symptoms, which may be mistaken for medical conditions. These symptoms can include:

• Frequent stomachaches or headaches with no medical cause
• Nausea or dizziness, particularly before school or tests
• Rapid heartbeat, excessive sweating, or shortness of breath
• Difficulty sleeping, nightmares, or frequent waking during the night
• Fatigue or excessive tiredness due to disrupted sleep patterns

Emotional and Behavioral Changes

Anxiety can lead to noticeable changes in a child’s emotions and behavior. Some common signs include:

• Excessive worry about school, friendships, or family matters
• Frequent mood swings, irritability, or unexplained crying
• Increased sensitivity to criticism or fear of making mistakes
• Withdrawal from social activities or reluctance to engage with peers
• Seeking constant reassurance from parents or teachers

School-Related Anxiety Signs

School is often a major source of anxiety for children. Anxiety-related behaviors in a school setting may include:

• Avoidance of school or frequent requests to stay home
• Difficulty concentrating in class or struggling with assignments
• Refusal to participate in class discussions or group activities
• Overreacting to minor setbacks or becoming overly distressed about grades
• Complaining about feeling unwell, especially on school days

Social Anxiety Symptoms

Some children experience social anxiety, making interactions with peers and teachers particularly stressful. Signs of social anxiety may include:

• Fear of being judged, criticized, or embarrassed
• Avoiding eye contact or speaking softly around others
• Reluctance to attend social events, birthday parties, or playdates
• Extreme shyness or difficulty initiating conversations
• Fear of being called on in class or presenting in front of others

Perfectionism and Fear of Failure

Children with anxiety may set unrealistically high expectations for themselves, leading to excessive perfectionism. This can be observed through:

• Spending excessive time on assignments to make them “perfect”
• Avoiding activities where they might not excel
• Getting extremely upset over small mistakes
• Refusing to try new things due to fear of failure

How School Anxiety Affects Academic Performance

Anxiety in school-aged children can significantly impact their academic performance. When anxiety becomes overwhelming, it affects concentration, memory retention, classroom participation, and overall engagement in learning. Children struggling with school-related anxiety often experience difficulties in keeping up with academic demands, leading to lower self-esteem and a fear of failure.

Difficulty Concentrating and Retaining Information

Anxiety activates the brain’s amygdala, which heightens the fight-or-flight response, diverting cognitive resources away from learning and problem-solving. When children experience anxiety, their brains prioritize perceived threats over academic tasks, impairing their ability to focus, retain, and recall information. Research from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) shows that chronic anxiety disrupts the hippocampus, the brain’s memory center, making it harder for children to learn new concepts or remember studied material.

A student experiencing test anxiety may blank out on previously studied material despite thorough preparation. Studies have shown that test performance can decline by as much as 20% when students experience heightened anxiety before an exam. Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing before studying or taking a test can help reduce anxiety and improve focus. Research suggests that mindfulness exercises, such as guided meditation, can reduce test anxiety by 30% and improve focus during academic tasks. 

Anxiety triggers the brain’s stress response, which can impair cognitive functions such as focus, problem-solving, and memory retention. A child experiencing anxiety may find it difficult to absorb and recall information during lessons or exams.

A student experiencing test anxiety may blank out on previously studied material despite thorough preparation. Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing before studying or taking a test can help reduce anxiety and improve focus.

Avoidance of School and Assignments

Children with chronic school-related anxiety may avoid tasks that trigger their distress, such as attending school, completing homework, or participating in class discussions. This avoidance reinforces anxiety, creating a vicious cycle that leads to academic setbacks. According to a Harvard University study students who frequently avoid school-related responsibilities due to anxiety are 50% more likely to experience a decline in academic performance and struggle with self-esteem issues.

A child who is anxious about giving a presentation may refuse to go to school on the day of the speech, leading to missed lessons and additional stress when trying to catch up. Gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking tasks, with encouragement from teachers and parents, can help children develop coping mechanisms. Research from the Journal of Anxiety Disorders suggests that exposure therapy, where children are gradually introduced to feared academic situations, can reduce avoidance behavior by 40% over time.

Children with high levels of anxiety often avoid tasks that trigger their distress, such as school attendance, homework, or classroom participation. This avoidance can create academic gaps, making it harder for them to keep up with their peers.

A child who is anxious about giving a presentation may refuse to go to school on the day of the speech. Gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking tasks, with encouragement from teachers and parents, can help children develop coping mechanisms.

Declining Academic Performance

As anxiety increases, children may struggle to complete assignments on time, perform poorly on tests, or hesitate to participate in class. A longitudinal study from Stanford University found that children with high levels of school-related anxiety tend to score 15-20% lower on standardized tests compared to their less anxious peers. Anxiety-induced performance decline can erode a child’s confidence, making it even more challenging to improve academically.

A student who worries excessively about getting every answer right may take an unusually long time to complete assignments, leading to incomplete work and missed deadlines.

Encouraging a growth mindset, where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities rather than failures, can help students feel less pressure and more motivated to learn. A study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that students trained in growth mindset principles were 40% more likely to persist in difficult tasks and show improved academic performance over time.

Children with anxiety may struggle to complete assignments on time, perform poorly on tests, or show reluctance in engaging in academic discussions. The fear of failure can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, causing declining academic performance over time. A student who worries excessively about getting every answer right may take an unusually long time to complete assignments, leading to incomplete work.

Encouraging a growth mindset, where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities, can help students feel less pressure and more motivated to learn.

Perfectionism and Overworking

While some children avoid schoolwork due to anxiety, others may overcompensate by working excessively to avoid failure. This perfectionism often leads to increased stress, burnout, and frustration. Research from the American Psychological Association (APA) has shown that perfectionistic students are at a 30% higher risk of developing anxiety disorders due to the unrealistic academic standards they impose on themselves.

A child rewriting assignments multiple times to achieve perfection may become overwhelmed and frustrated, making schoolwork feel even more stressful and discouraging.

Setting realistic expectations and emphasizing effort over perfection can help children manage anxiety while maintaining a healthy academic balance. Research in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry suggests that teaching self-compassion and cognitive restructuring techniques can reduce perfectionist tendencies in children by 35%, leading to improved emotional well-being and academic performance.

While some children avoid schoolwork due to anxiety, others may overcompensate by working excessively to avoid failure. This perfectionism can lead to burnout, exhaustion, and frustration.

A child rewriting assignments multiple times to achieve perfection may become overwhelmed and frustrated, making schoolwork feel even more stressful. Setting realistic expectations and emphasizing effort over perfection can help children manage anxiety while maintaining a healthy academic balance.

Fear of Asking for Help

Anxious students may hesitate to ask for clarification or assistance due to fear of appearing incompetent. This reluctance can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and gaps in learning, further exacerbating academic struggles. According to a University of California, Berkeley study, children with school-related anxiety are 45% less likely to ask for help in the classroom, increasing their likelihood of falling behind academically.

A child afraid of being judged may avoid raising their hand in class, leading to confusion, incomplete assignments, and lower grades. Teachers and parents should create an environment where asking questions is encouraged and rewarded, helping children build confidence in seeking help. A study from Harvard Graduate School of Education found that classrooms where teachers actively encouraged inquiry and normalized mistakes saw a 60% increase in student participation and problem-solving confidence.

Anxious students may hesitate to ask for clarification or assistance due to fear of appearing incompetent. This can lead to misunderstandings and gaps in learning, further exacerbating academic struggles. A child afraid of being judged may avoid raising their hand in class, leading to confusion and lower grades.

Teachers and parents should create an environment where asking questions is encouraged and rewarded, helping children build confidence in seeking help.

School anxiety can have a profound impact on a child’s academic success. Identifying the effects of anxiety on learning and providing appropriate support can help children feel more confident and engaged in school. The next section will explore strategies teachers can use to support anxious students and foster a positive learning environment.. By understanding physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms, parents and educators can provide the necessary support to help children manage their anxiety effectively. The next section will explore how school anxiety affects a child’s academic performance and what strategies can help mitigate its impact.

A Guide for Parents

School-related anxiety is a common challenge that many children face, whether due to academic pressures, social interactions, or fear of failure. Parents play a vital role in supporting their children through these difficulties, helping them develop emotional resilience and confidence. By fostering open communication, teaching coping techniques, and modeling a positive mindset, parents can provide the foundation for their children to manage school-related stress effectively.

Recognizing the Signs of School-Related Anxiety

Before parents can support their child’s anxiety, they need to recognize its signs. Some children may verbalize their worries, but many express anxiety through physical symptoms or behavioral changes. Frequent complaints of stomach aches, headaches, or trouble sleeping can be indicators of stress. Other warning signs include reluctance to go to school, emotional outbursts, avoidance of homework, or social withdrawal.

Instead of dismissing these symptoms as typical childhood behaviors, parents can acknowledge their child’s struggles by saying:
“I’ve noticed that you’re feeling a bit different about school lately. I’m here to listen if you want to talk about it.”

By creating an environment where children feel safe sharing their concerns, parents help them feel supported rather than isolated in their worries.

Encouraging Open and Supportive Conversations

A key step in managing school-related anxiety is fostering open communication between parents and children. Anxious children often hesitate to talk about their fears because they worry about being judged or misunderstood. Parents can encourage open dialogue by avoiding direct interrogations like, “What’s wrong?” and instead using gentle prompts such as:
“I see that school has been a bit tough lately. Want to talk about what’s on your mind?”

It’s essential to validate their feelings rather than dismissing them with phrases like “It’s nothing to worry about”. Instead, parents can reassure their child by saying:
“I understand that school can feel overwhelming sometimes. Let’s figure out how we can make things easier together.”

By using language that promotes a sense of security, parents help their child feel comfortable expressing their anxieties.

Teaching Children to Reframe Negative Thoughts

Anxious children often engage in negative self-talk, reinforcing their fears and self-doubt. Parents can help shift these thought patterns by guiding their child toward more empowering beliefs.

For example, if a child says, “I always fail in math,” parents can help them reframe it by saying:
“Math can be tricky, but every mistake you make helps your brain grow stronger. You’re still learning, and that’s okay.”

Similarly, if a child says, “Nobody likes me at school,” parents can offer a new perspective:
“You may not have found the right friends yet, but let’s think of ways you can connect with others.”

Encouraging positive affirmations, such as “I can handle challenges” and “I am improving every day”, helps children develop a growth mindset and reduces their tendency to catastrophize situations.

Teaching Coping Strategies for Anxiety

When children feel overwhelmed, practical coping techniques can help them manage their emotions in real time. Parents can introduce simple but effective grounding techniques, such as the 5-4-3-2-1 method, which involves naming:

• 5 things they can see
• 4 things they can touch
• 3 things they can hear
• 2 things they can smell
• 1 thing they can taste

This exercise helps shift their focus from anxious thoughts to the present moment.

Another effective tool is deep breathing exercises. Parents can guide their child by saying:
“Let’s take a deep breath in for four seconds, hold for four, and slowly breathe out for six seconds. Let’s do this together.”

Additionally, parents can introduce visualization techniques, asking their child to picture a happy or safe place, such as the beach or a favorite park, to help them regain a sense of calm.

Creating a Structured and Confidence-Boosting Routine

Many children experience peak anxiety before the school day begins. Establishing a morning confidence ritual can help them start their day with a positive mindset. Parents can integrate simple practices such as:

• Playing uplifting music at breakfast
• Encouraging power postures (standing tall, hands on hips, deep breathing)
• Practicing positive affirmations like:
  “I am ready for today. I can handle any challenges that come my way.”

When children struggle with schoolwork, breaking assignments into small, achievable steps can help reduce feelings of overwhelm. Instead of saying, “Just get it done”, parents can say:
“Let’s focus on one small step right now. What’s the easiest thing we can start with?”

Reinforcing effort over perfection is also key. If a child gets discouraged, hearing a parent say, “I love how hard you worked on this,” rather than “You should have done better,” can build their confidence and encourage a growth mindset.

Modeling Emotional Resilience and Encouraging Social Confidence

Children learn how to respond to stress by observing their parents. If they see their parents reacting with frustration or panic, they are more likely to develop the same response patterns. Instead of expressing stress in a way that adds to their child’s anxiety, parents can model calm problem-solving by saying:
“I’m feeling a little overwhelmed, but I’m going to take a deep breath and handle this one step at a time.”

For children struggling with social anxiety, parents can role-play different situations to help them practice conversations and social skills. If a child is nervous about making friends, parents can ask:
“If someone says hello to you, what could you say back?”

Teaching assertive body language, such as standing tall, making eye contact, and speaking clearly, also helps children build confidence. Parents can remind them:
“Not everyone will be our best friend, and that’s okay. What’s important is finding people who appreciate you for who you are.”

After a long school day, parents can establish a post-school relaxation routine that allows their child to unwind. Instead of immediately asking, “How was school?”, they can say:
“Take your time, and when you’re ready, I’d love to hear about your day.”

Encouraging journaling with simple prompts like “What went well today?” or “What’s one thing you’re proud of?” can also help children reflect positively on their experiences.

Final Thoughts

Helping children navigate school-related anxiety requires patience, empathy, and consistency. By fostering open conversations, teaching coping techniques, modeling resilience, and creating structured routines, parents can empower their children to handle school challenges with confidence.

Anxiety doesn’t have to define a child’s school experience—when they are equipped with the right strategies, they can learn to manage stress effectively and develop emotional strength that lasts a lifetime.

For parents seeking additional guidance, Mindfulness-Based Coaching Sessions with Saurabh Gupta at MindfulWholeness.org offer personalized strategies to help children build resilience and self-confidence. A strong, emotionally balanced child today will grow into a confident, capable adult tomorrow.

FAQ: Helping Children Navigate School-Related Anxiety

How can I tell if my child has school-related anxiety?

School-related anxiety manifests through physical symptoms (headaches, stomachaches), emotional distress (excessive worrying, mood swings), and behavioral changes (avoiding school, withdrawal from social activities). If these symptoms persist and interfere with daily functioning, it may indicate school anxiety.

What are some common triggers of school anxiety?

School anxiety can be triggered by academic pressure, fear of failure, social interactions, bullying, separation from parents, learning disabilities, and overwhelming school environments. External factors like family stress and media exposure can also contribute.

How can I help my child prepare for a school day without anxiety?

Establishing a consistent morning routine, allowing extra time to get ready, and engaging in calming activities like deep breathing or visualization can help ease school anxiety. Providing encouragement and reassurance before leaving for school is also beneficial.

What should I do if my child refuses to go to school due to anxiety?

Avoiding school can reinforce anxiety. Instead, validate your child’s feelings, identify their specific fears, and work on gradual exposure. Collaborate with teachers or school counselors to create a supportive plan.

Can anxiety affect my child’s academic performance?

Yes. Anxiety can impair concentration, memory retention, and problem-solving skills, leading to difficulty completing assignments, lower test scores, and decreased classroom participation.

What role do teachers play in helping anxious students?

Teachers can help by creating a supportive classroom environment, offering accommodations like extended time on tests, allowing quiet spaces, and providing encouragement. Open communication between parents and teachers is essential.

When should I seek professional help for my child’s anxiety?

If anxiety significantly impacts your child’s daily life, relationships, or academic performance, seeking professional guidance from a counselor, therapist, or pediatrician is recommended. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for childhood anxiety.

Are there any lifestyle changes that can help reduce school anxiety?

Encouraging a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, proper sleep, balanced nutrition, and mindfulness practices can help reduce anxiety. Limiting screen time and exposure to distressing news can also be beneficial.

How can I teach my child to manage test anxiety?

Teaching deep breathing exercises, positive self-talk, and time-management skills can help children cope with test anxiety. Practice exams at home in a relaxed setting can also improve confidence and reduce stress during actual tests.

Can social skills training help with school anxiety?

Yes. Children with social anxiety benefit from structured social skills training, role-playing exercises, and participation in group activities. Encouraging social interactions in a non-pressured environment can help build confidence over time.

How can parents tell if their child is experiencing school-related anxiety?

Parents can look for signs such as frequent headaches or stomach aches, trouble sleeping, reluctance to go to school, emotional outbursts, excessive worrying about school performance, or avoiding homework. Some children may also express their anxiety through irritability or withdrawing from social activities.

What should parents say when their child refuses to go to school due to anxiety?

Instead of saying “You have to go to school no matter what”, parents can acknowledge their child’s feelings while gently encouraging them. A helpful response could be: “I understand that school feels overwhelming right now. Let’s talk about what’s making it hard and find a way to make it easier together.”

How can parents help their child deal with the fear of failure in school?

Children often fear making mistakes or disappointing others. Parents can help by reframing failure as part of the learning process. Instead of focusing on perfection, they can say: “Every mistake helps you get better. What’s something new you learned from this?” Encouraging a growth mindset reduces the pressure to be perfect.

What strategies can parents use to calm their child before school?

A morning routine that includes calming techniques can help. Parents can guide their child through deep breathing exercises, visualization, or positive affirmations like “I am ready for today, and I can handle challenges”. Playing soft music during breakfast or engaging in light stretching can also ease morning stress.

How can parents help their child make friends and feel more socially confident?

Social anxiety is common among children, and role-playing different situations can help them prepare for real interactions. Parents can practice conversation starters with their child and encourage confident body language. They can also say: “Not everyone will be our best friend, and that’s okay. Let’s focus on finding people who appreciate you for who you are.”

What can parents do when their child has a panic attack about school?

During a panic attack, it’s important to help the child feel safe and grounded. Parents can use the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique, asking their child to name five things they see, four things they touch, three things they hear, two things they smell, and one thing they taste. A calming phrase like “I’m here with you. Let’s take this moment one breath at a time” can also help.

How can parents encourage their child to talk about school struggles without pressuring them?

Instead of asking direct questions like “How was school?”, parents can use indirect prompts like “Tell me about something interesting that happened today” or “What’s something that made you smile at school?” Creating a relaxed and non-judgmental atmosphere makes children more likely to open up.

What should parents do if their child is anxious about tests and exams?

Parents can help their child prepare in manageable steps rather than cramming. Breaking study sessions into short intervals, practicing relaxation techniques, and reassuring them with “You’ve prepared for this, and you’ll do your best. That’s all that matters” can help ease exam anxiety.

How can parents help their child manage homework stress?

Homework can feel overwhelming, so parents can encourage their child to break it down into small steps. Instead of saying, “Just get it done”, they can say, “Let’s start with one small section and take a short break after that.” Celebrating progress, rather than perfection, also reduces anxiety.

When should parents seek professional help for their child’s school anxiety?

If school-related anxiety is significantly impacting a child’s daily life—such as causing frequent absences, severe emotional distress, or disruptions in sleep and appetite—seeking professional support from a counselor, therapist, or mindfulness coach can be beneficial. Mindfulness-Based Coaching Sessions with Saurabh Gupta at MindfulWholeness.org can provide personalized strategies to help children develop emotional resilience and confidence.