Back-to-school anxiety in kids: What to watch out for

By Gail Belsky
Expert reviewed by Jerome Schultz, PhD

At a glance
Many kids are anxious about going back to school.
If they’ve fallen behind in reading or math, they may worry about catching up.
Kids have to adjust to everything from socializing to schedules.
Some kids get anxious over the start of school every year. That’s especially true for kids who struggle with learning or with making friends, and those with anxiety.
Here are some things kids are likely to be anxious about as school starts this year:
- Being behind and not being able to catch up
- Not knowing their teacher
- Not fitting in with kids in their new class
- Not being prepared for changes or not knowing what to expect
- School safety
Kids may need extra support as they head back to school. But families and educators can ease the transition and help kids manage anxiety.
Dive deeper
Signs of anxiety
Typical anxiety versus an anxiety problem
How parents and caregivers can help
How educators can help
About the author

About the author
Gail Belsky is executive editor at Understood. She has written and edited for major media outlets, specializing in parenting, health, and career content.
Reviewed by

Reviewed by
Jerome Schultz, PhD is a clinical neuropsychologist and lecturer in the Harvard Medical School Department of Child Psychiatry.