The holidays are officially behind us and for South African pupils, it’s time to return to the classroom. As the new school year commences, excitement fills the air, but for many children, it also marks the beginning of increased anxiety.
The start of a new school year brings excitement. Still it can also trigger anxiety —especially for those entering new phases, like starting high school or adjusting to new teachers and unfamiliar environments.
Social anxiety, coupled with the fear of fitting in, peaks at this time of year, making the 2025 school year especially challenging for many families.
But what causes this anxiety? Young Minds cites that young kids may feel nervous about school for various reasons.
They may be concerned about making friends or fitting in, finding schoolwork or lessons complicated, feeling driven to study in a specific manner or having problematic relationships with teachers.
According to the Child Mind Institute, anxiety impacts school experiences for children, often manifesting in unexpected ways. Symptoms such as stomach aches, acting out, or withdrawal can easily mimic other issues, including ADHD or learning disorders.
“Many children and teens have faced disruptions in learning, new social pressures, and increased digital influences that can heighten stress,” explains Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.
She points out that these factors often amplify school-related anxiety, which impacts both attendance and social interaction.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that one in seven young people has experienced a mental health disorder, with school-related anxieties frequently at the forefront.
According to Lori Graham-Robertson, an occupational therapist and parenting consultant with PlaySense, caregivers play a critical role in this dynamic.
Children are especially susceptible to anxiety in unpredictable situations particularly at school where separation from caregivers and unfamiliar settings can heighten their stress levels.
Back-to-school anxiety can manifest subtly; as someone who harboured my own fears in school, I recall dreading drama class as a shy student.
My anxiety often surfaced in physical symptoms, such as hiccups, at the mere thought of stepping into that classroom. To the point of coming up with any excuse under the sun to avoid that class.
However, my mother, a teacher, imparted a valuable lesson: “Find an anchor in any situation to bring you back”.
It simply means finding a grounding technique that will help you regain control of your emotions at that moment. (I repeated a mantra, You got this until I truly believe it!)
Anxiety can often cause you to feel disconnected from the present moment.
Recognising the signs of back-to-school anxiety
It’s crucial to be aware of the signs of anxiety so that intervention can occur early.
Common symptoms include
- Reluctance to attend school.
- Altered appetite or sleep disturbances.
- Physical complaints, such as stomach aches or headaches.
- Social withdrawal or increased irritability.
- Decline in academic performance.
For many children, back-to-school anxiety is a natural aspect of transitioning. With appropriate support, they can navigate these challenges successfully and flourish in their new educational landscape.
Effective strategies for parents
Parents and caregivers play a pivotal role in alleviating back-to-school jitters. Here are some practical strategies to help ease the transition:
1. Create a consistent routine:Children thrive on predictability. Establish regular wake-up times, meal schedules and bedtimes to provide them with a sense of security.
2. Encourage open communication: Develop a safe space for children to share their feelings without worry of judgement. Validating their emotions can drastically reduce anxiety levels.
3. Teach positive self-talk:Help children build self-confidence by promoting positive affirmations, such as “I can do this” or “I’m ready”, to combat self-doubt.
4. Prepare in advance: Begin preparations a week or two before school starts. Resume school-year routines.
5. Visit the school: Familiarity can soothe anxiety; consider visiting the school before the term starts to explore the environment.
6. Practice drop-off:Rehearse dropping your child off at class to build their comfort level and reduce the fear of separation.
7. Arrange playdates:Strengthen peer relationships prior to school by organising playdates or encouraging participation in clubs.
8. Practice relaxation techniques: Engage in simple mindfulness practices like deep breathing or guided imagery to reinforce self-care habits.
9. Seek professional help: If anxiety begins to disrupt daily life, consulting a mental health professional can offer tailored strategies to help children cope effectively.
These initiatives help parents foster a nurturing and predictable environment that fosters confidence and resilience.
By empowering our children to confront their fears, we equip them with essential skills to tackle life’s uncertainties. After all, bravery isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the courage to move forward despite it.
