It’s August and your child is suddenly complaining about stomachaches, they’re sleeping worse, or maybe they’re clinging to you more than usual.
And you’re thinking: “Is this normal? What’s going on?”
Here’s what you probably already know: summer ends, school starts, and for a lot of kids, that transition hits hard.
The problem isn’t that your child is being difficult. The problem is that their nervous system is saying, “Hey, something’s changing, and I’m not sure I’m ready.”
Back-to-school anxiety is real. And it shows up differently in every kid.
I’m Alex Hurst, a licensed clinical social worker and child therapist, and I work with kids and families navigating exactly this, those big transitions that shake their world.
Here’s what I’ve learned: when kids resist going back to school, they’re not trying to be obstinate. They’re trying to tell us something like “This is a big and scary change.”
And the good news? We can help them move through this.
So here are three things you can start doing right now:
#1: Validate the Feeling
Don’t skip straight to “You’ll be fine!” Instead, try this: “I see you’re worried about going back to school. That makes sense. New things can feel big.”
When kids feel heard, their nervous system actually settles. It’s that simple.
#2: Create a Back-to-School Ritual Together
This could be picking out a special lunch box, visiting the school playground one afternoon, or making a “Schooltime” playlist for the car ride.
Rituals give kids a sense of familiarity. And that helps their brain feel safe.
#3: Practice Co-Regulation
Your kid’s nervous system is looking to you. Deep breaths before bed. A hug that lasts a few seconds longer. Walking or dancing together.
You’re literally helping their body learn how to settle.
If your child’s back-to-school anxiety feels bigger than these tips alone can handle, if it’s showing up as refusal, serious physical complaints, or sleep disruption, that’s when to bring in some extra support.
I work with kids and parents to figure out what’s underneath the resistance and build a plan that actually works for your family.
Schedule an appointment with me today. And trust that this transition, as hard as it feels right now, is something you two can move through together.
