Children Are Experiencing Heightened School Anxiety This Year—Here’s How to Address It

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As parents, the start of a new school year often brings a mix of excitement and nervousness. We want our children to be physically and mentally prepared for school, yet doubts can creep in about their readiness. It’s completely normal to feel this way; after all, we desire the best for our kids. However, it’s not just us who are feeling anxious—our children are grappling with their own worries, which have been intensified this year by the ongoing effects of COVID-19.

In a typical year, children may experience anxiety related to friendships and adapting to new teachers. But this year is anything but typical. With the barrage of news about the pandemic and its repercussions, kids are keenly aware of the challenges surrounding them, leading to heightened fears. Many will return to classrooms with masks and social distancing measures in place, creating a stark contrast to what they once knew. For those who have been engaged in virtual learning for a significant period, the transition back to in-person schooling can feel daunting.

Dr. Emily Carter, a pediatrician at Green Valley Children’s Hospital, shared insights on this increased anxiety in children. “For those who missed in-person schooling last year, there’s a natural apprehension about re-engaging with peers and teachers. Additionally, children who struggled with virtual learning may be anxious about their academic progress and the workload they’re facing. Concerns about wearing a mask throughout the day can also contribute to their worries,” she explained.

The unfamiliarity of spaced-out desks and the inability to see friends’ faces clearly can be unsettling for children. Consider how you might have felt as a child in a similar situation—likely overwhelmed and anxious. Starting a new school year is already intimidating, but navigating a school environment that feels alien can amplify those fears.

The fear of the unknown fuels anxiety. Kids may feel isolated from their friends and disrupted from their usual routines. Dr. Carter noted that the pervasive anxiety among children is compounded by witnessing the fears of the adults in their lives, alongside the overwhelming narratives on social media. It’s a challenging situation for our little ones.

Strategies to Help Calm Anxiety

As parents, we strive to ease our children’s anxiety. Dr. Carter offers several strategies to help calm those nerves:

1. Promote Quality Sleep: Aim for around eight hours of sleep each night. Encourage your child to unplug from electronics at least an hour before bedtime. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends, can greatly benefit their overall well-being.
2. Encourage Family Time: Make it a goal to have family dinners three to four times a week. This creates a space for everyone to reconnect and share what’s happening in their lives. Dedicating 15-20 minutes to screen-free time during meals can foster meaningful conversations.
3. Consult with a Pediatrician: If anxiety begins to interfere with daily activities, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s doctor. Early intervention can be critical.
4. Acknowledge Their Feelings: It’s essential to recognize and validate your children’s emotions. Providing unconditional support and teaching them coping mechanisms can make a significant difference. In some cases, seeking professional help might be necessary, and that’s perfectly alright.
5. Create an Honest Environment: Dr. Carter emphasized the importance of fostering a positive yet truthful atmosphere. Equip your children with accurate information instead of fear. Support mask-wearing and vaccination efforts, reminding them that these measures are in place to protect themselves and others.

For more tips on navigating parenting challenges, check out this blog post on anxiety and consider exploring boosting fertility supplements if you’re looking to expand your family. Another excellent resource for those considering pregnancy and home insemination is March of Dimes.

Summary

As the school year begins, children are facing increased anxiety, largely due to the impacts of COVID-19. Parents can alleviate this anxiety by promoting good sleep habits, encouraging family time, seeking professional help if necessary, validating their children’s feelings, and maintaining a positive, honest environment.