As summer ends, many children look forward to the excitement of a new school year. But for others, the transition can trigger significant anxiety, with a recent survey finding that 64% of children’s worries are school-related. Cognitive neuroscientist Robert Alexander, Ph.D., assistant professor of counseling and wellness at New York Institute of Technology, explains why this time of year can be particularly stressful for some kids.
“Our brains are prediction machines, and our nervous systems constantly try to anticipate what will happen next, so that we can respond appropriately and stay safe,” says Alexander. “The beginning of a new school year disrupts many of those predictions all at once—old routines are broken, expectations and environments change, children are presented with new classrooms, teachers, classmates, and other daily adjustments.” While some nervousness is developmentally normal, children prone to anxiety may find the return to school overwhelming. Alexander advises parents to recognize the signs, which may not always be obvious. “Children often express anxiety indirectly,” he notes, pointing to changes in sleep, irritability, difficulty concentrating, appetite changes, clinginess, or social withdrawal.
The best way to reduce anxiety, according to Alexander, is preparation. “Preparation helps make things more predictable and allows us to adapt to changes,” he says. Visiting the school, discussing routines, and gradually re-establishing bedtimes before classes begin can all help children feel more secure. Sleep, in particular, plays a major role in emotional regulation and stress resilience. Additionally, parents should be mindful of their own reactions, as children often look to adults for cues on how to respond. “Responding with calm confidence can send a powerful message of safety,” Alexander explains.
When overwhelming feelings arise, children can practice simple calming techniques, such as slow, controlled breathing. Alexander recommends inhaling for four seconds and exhaling for six. However, he cautions parents against trying to eliminate anxiety entirely, as a healthy amount can foster resilience. “Confidence grows through small wins,” he says. “When children successfully introduce themselves to a new friend, find their new classroom, or survive their first week at a new school, they learn that they are capable in those environments. But children who are prone to anxiety may need some extra help moving through those feelings successfully.”
Alexander is one of many New York Tech faculty members lending their expertise to address real-world challenges. For more information, visit nyit.edu.
