While many students look forward to a new school year, others feel anxious about returning to the classroom. Health experts say the first day of school can be stressful. Those nerves may sometimes develop into anxiety as learners adjust to new routines. Back-to-school anxiety may be common but it needs to be properly addressed.
Returning to school can overwhelm some students after a relaxed summer break. New teachers, new classmates, increased academic expectations, social concerns, and changes in routine can trigger anxiety.
According to health experts, signs of anxiety in children and teenagers include stomachaches, headaches, or sleep issues. They also advise parents to watch for anxiety that affects a child’s ability to attend school or function productively. Experts say recognizing the signs of anxiety is the first step. They encourage parents to have an open conversation with their child about their feelings.
Dr. Molly O’Shea stressed the importance of showing up to school despite anxiety. O’Shea is a pediatrician and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics.
“Any attendance is better than no attendance when it comes to school anxiety. And it’s so tempting as a parent to say, okay, we’ll take a mental health day today. And you’ll kind of gather your strength and be able to go again, go tomorrow, when actually that reinforces the anxiety and makes it even harder to go the next day,” O’Shea said via KOAT Action News.
Doctors say parents can involve a therapist or mental health support professional in certain cases. These professionals can help their children work through their emotions and build confidence.
Attendance Tips from NMPED
The New Mexico Public Education Department shared tips to encourage regular school attendance. According to NMPED, regular attendance helps students build relationships, understand classroom expectations, and develop confidence.
“Each day at school helps create a positive momentum for the year ahead,” the department said in a social media post.
Parents and caregivers can make attendance and punctuality a priority from the first day of school. They should also help their child understand why showing up every day matters.
NMPED advises parents and guardians to plan ahead for appointments, travel, and other commitments to reduce missed instructional time. The department also encourages them to help children begin the school year with a positive attitude toward attendance.
Additionally, students are encouraged to get involved and connect to the school community. Building those connections can give them something meaningful to look forward to each day.
“Activiies, programs, and positive relationships can help students build confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging,” according to NMPED.
Parents and caregivers should help students explore clubs, athletics, fine arts, career programs, and leadership opportunities. They should also encourage them to introduce themselves to teachers, counselors, and other school staff to establish relationships early.
NMPED said talking about the classes, activities, and experiences students are most excited about can help build connections. It also urges students to attend open houses, welcome events, and other school activities with their families whenever possible.
