---
title: 'Back-to-school anxiety in kids: What to watch out for'
description: Back-to-school anxiety is common for kids at the start of the school year. It can be temporary or a deeper issue. Kids may feel anxious about not knowing their teacher or falling behind. Learn more.
slug: managing-back-to-school-anxiety
author: Gail Belsky
reviewer: Jerome Schultz, PhD
published: '2019-10-16T11:46:23.849Z'
thumbnail: https://cdn-images.understood.org/p0qf7j048i0q/3303731C76F94C5BB14DB1093AE9AA87/1629f765e82fa80c8580d9a5f70a4ef5/G1163038244.png
source_url: https://www.understood.org/en/articles/managing-back-to-school-anxiety
lang: en
---

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

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.

---

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