Upcoming School Year Might Create Anxiety in Children

Our children are constantly changing throughout the year, from physical to emotional changes.  But, there is one time of the year that academic and social demands go through the biggest change. That time is now!

Summer represents fun, sun, and a much needed break for parents and kids. It can also represent the upcoming stress of a new classroom, new teachers, new classmates, and possibly even a new school.

You may not know it by looking at them with all their unstoppable energy and constant chatter, but some of our kids could be experiencing anxiety about the new school year. Anxiety is a form of stress and can be expressed in your child (or any person for that matter) physically and emotionally. Anxiety is worry of what might happen in the future.

Here are some signs:

• Excessive worry most days of the week, for weeks on end,
• Trouble sleeping at night or sleepiness during the day,
• Restlessness or fatigue during waking hours,
• Trouble concentrating, and
• Irritability (anger or moodiness)

What can parents do to help alleviate this anxiety? You might think you are not equipped to handle anxiety in your child but you are. Try these tips:

• Reassure your child that all will be well, that they have your support.
• Do not judge them or mock them.
• Let them know that they are not alone. Tell them a story of how you were able to deal with a similar situation.
• Let them know if they let go they will be able to enjoy the summer and be ready for what is to come.

If you feel that this has not helped your child and that matters may be getting worse,seek help from a professional, like the ones here at CHI’s Behavioral Health Department. To make an appointment, call 305-252-4820.

Celia Mion-Araoz, Licensed Mental Health Counselor