School can be a daunting place for children with anxiety. But there are ways to help ease their anxiety and make the school day a little bit better.
There are a lot of different things that can contribute to a child feeling anxious about school. Some children are anxious about tests and whether or not they will perform well. Others may be nervous about making new friends or being in a new environment. And for some, the anxiety may be so debilitating that it interferes with their ability to attend school at all.
If your child is struggling with school anxiety, here are 6 strategies that may help:
- Talk to your child’s teacher.
Talking to your child’s teacher can help you get a better understanding of what may be causing your child’s anxiety and how to best support them.
- Encourage your child to express their feelings.
It’s important to encourage your child to express how they’re feeling, whether it’s through talking, writing, drawing, or any other outlet that they feel comfortable with.
- Help them to develop a positive mindset.
One way to help reduce anxiety is to help your child develop a more positive mindset. This may mean helping them to reframe their thinking about school and encouraging them to focus on the things that they’re looking forward to.
- Create a routine.
Having a set routine can help to reduce anxiety as it can provide a sense of predictability and control. This may include things like having a set time for homework, making sure they have everything they need for school each day, and having a set bedtime.
- Teach them relaxation techniques.
There are a number of different relaxation techniques that can be helpful for reducing anxiety. These may include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or visualization.
- Get them moving.
Exercise is a great way to release tension and reduce anxiety. Even just a short walk or some playful activity can make a big difference.
- Connect with other parents.
Connecting with other parents who have children with school anxiety can be a great way to get support and share ideas. There are a number of online groups and forums that can be helpful.
- Seek professional help.
If your child’s anxiety is significantly impacting their life, it may be worth seeking professional help. A therapist can work with your child to identify the root of their anxiety and develop a plan to address it.
