Schools should be a place where children can learn, grow, and build confidence,
However, for many pupils, it can also become a source of anxiety for a variety of reasons that parents can struggle to identify.
While it’s impossible to remove every challenge, as a parent, there are still some choices you can make to help your child go to school without feeling stressed out. In fact, in 2024 nearly one-third of UK secondary pupils were avoiding school due to anxiety. So, it’s important to appreciate that school stress is not another excuse to stay in bed and laze all day. It’s a real issue that needs attention.
Photo by Katie Gerrard on Unsplash
Consider extra academic support
Why are kids scared of going to school? One common cause is feeling overwhelmed in the classroom. When children struggle to keep up with lessons, this can make them anxious about homework, tests, and ultimately attending school in general.
It’s worth seeking extra help to avoid small learning gaps from becoming bigger challenges. In fact, one-to-one tutoring gives children the opportunity to ask questions they may not feel confident asking in the classroom. It’s also a great way of revisiting topics they find difficult or building a stronger understanding without peer pressure.
A lot of parents find this online tutoring platform while looking for additional academic support. It’s a great way to ensure children can build the academic confidence they need to thrive.
Teach them healthy ways to relax
Children experience stress just as adults do, but they don’t always have the vocabulary to explain how they’re feeling.
Teaching them simple relaxation techniques from an early age can help them manage worries. Meditation and mindfulness exercises designed for children encourage slower breathing and improve emotional awareness. They are very effective at showing how to calm anxious thoughts.
Some short sessions of quiet breathing or guided meditation after or before school can help children release built-up tension. It’s worth noting that these relaxation techniques can also support better sleep, which plays a role in emotional regulation.
Stay alert to signs of bullying
Sometimes stress is caused by difficult relationships with classmates, and this can have a significant impact on a child’s mental health.
Many children don’t immediately tell their parents they’re being bullied. So, it’s important to watch for subtle changes in behaviour. Being reluctant to attend school may not be a clear giveaway. However, when it’s accompanied by changes in appetite, damaged belongings, declining grades, and emotional withdrawal, it could indicate your child is being targeted at school.
Create a calming routine
Everyday habits influence stress levels. For instance, excessive screen time, especially before bed, can make it hard for children to switch off and have a restful night’s sleep. Likewise, a loud and busy household can also lead to elevated stress levels, even before they get to school.
It’s important to create a peaceful space for children at home so they can unwind. Even if the space is limited, having a consistent area where interruptions are kept to a minimum and without a loud TV can help them feel settled.
Every child experiences stress from time to time, but parents can do a great deal to reduce unnecessary pressure.