Why some kids get stomachaches before school

By Julie Rawe

Expert reviewed by Roberto Olivardia, PhD

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  • Quick tip 1

    Show empathy.

    Tell kids you know the pain is real, and that you and the other caring adults in their lives can help solve whatever the problem is.

  • Quick tip 2

    Ask about school.

    Help kids open up by asking open-ended questions, like “What’s the hardest thing you’re working on?” or “Who are you eating lunch with?”

  • Quick tip 3

    Talk about stress.

    Explain that stress can come out in different ways — like stomachaches — and there are things they can do to cope with those feelings.

  • Quick tip 4

    Try not to avoid school.

    If the stomachache is stress-related, explain that not going to school today can make kids more anxious about going tomorrow. 

Some kids rarely get stomachaches. For others, it’s a common occurrence — especially on school days. They often wake up with pain that’s bad enough to make them want to stay home or not attend class. 

What’s causing their frequent stomach problems? It might be something physical, like constipation or lactose intolerance. But stomachaches can also be caused by stress. 

Doctors sometimes call this type of stomachache “psychosomatic” because it’s triggered by thoughts. While the cause isn’t physical, the pain is real. (Migraines are also often caused by stress.)

Stress doesn’t only cause pain — it can also affect our tolerance for pain. For example, a gas bubble might not bother us much when we’re happy and well-rested. But it might be very uncomfortable when we’re tired and stressed.

Frequent stomachaches or visits to the school nurse can sometimes be a sign that kids are struggling in school. The challenges may be academic or social.

No matter what the cause, starting a dialogue is a good first step to find out what’s going on.

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