Anxiety is another word for feeling worried

Children feeling anxious may not be able to express those feelings.  They may feel sick without knowing why.  They may seem restless or tired.  They may feel as if their heart is racing, or be sweating or blushing.  Sometimes they are shaking or feel sick to their stomach. Sometimes they feel very cold or hot.

While it is normal to feel anxious some children have more anxiety than others.  If a child has such feelings that get in the way of normal activities, such as sleeping alone at night, playing outside or going to school they may need extra support.

To make the first day of school easier a parent might take them to visit the new school or the classroom before the first day of school.  Attend any orientation available and if possible take them to play on the playground.  It is helpful to talk through the new routines more than once.  Getting up earlier and getting dressed, discussing what mode of transportation to and from school and what to expect, remind them that the teachers know that everyone is nervous the first day of school and will do everything they can to make everyone feel safe and comfortable.

Most children take the bus to school.  Remind them to wait until the bus is completely stopped and they can see the bus driver before trying to get on.  They should only get on the bus at the correct location both on the route and at school.  Practice crossing the street and looking both ways.  If seat belts are available how to use them.  They should know their name, address and your cell phone number.

Many children eat breakfast at school.  Make sure they eat a breakfast that is not high in sugar and has some protein.  They need to know what to expect in the cafeteria and know how it is paid for. If there is concern about a child’s eating habits ask the teacher to help by observing their intake. 

In addition to healthy eating, children need plenty of sleep and exercise.  Continuing the family’s schedule of playtime, meal time, and bedtime helps the child add in this new school routine and feel safe and secure.

It is important to talk to your doctor if your child start to have behavior problems, something scary has happened that is making their anxiety worse such a sickness or death in the family or their anxiety is affecting a medical condition such as asthma.

Most of all it is important that parents take care of themselves and talk to their doctors when stressed.

by Sally Robinson, MD, Clinical Professor