As August draws on, thoughts begin to turn towards September. New shoes, new pencil cases, and for many children, a rising tide of worry about going back to school. Whether your child is starting somewhere brand new or returning to a familiar setting, it is completely normal to feel a mixture of excitement and anxiety.
For some children, however, those nerves can become overwhelming. At Liverpool Occupational Therapy Services, we want to help families feel equipped to support their children through this time – calmly, practically, and with plenty of kindness.
Understanding School Anxiety
School anxiety is very common, and it can show up in lots of different ways. Some children become clingy or tearful; others become irritable or withdrawn. Physical symptoms like stomach aches, headaches, and disrupted sleep are also very common in the run-up to September.
For children who already face additional challenges – with sensory processing, social situations, attention, or emotional regulation – the return to school can bring a particular kind of overwhelm. It is important to take these feelings seriously, even when they seem out of proportion to the situation.
How to Help:
Reintroduce Routines Gradually
A week or two before school starts, begin gently shifting bedtimes and wake times back towards school-day rhythms. Reintroducing regular mealtimes and some structured activity during the day can help the nervous system adjust more smoothly.
Talk – But Do Not Overdo It
Open up conversations about the return to school, but keep them light and forward-looking rather than dwelling on worries. Questions like “What are you most looking forward to?” or “Who do you hope to sit near?” help shift focus to positive possibilities. At the same time, make space for your child to voice concerns without rushing to fix them.
Read About It Together
There are lots of wonderful books about starting school or moving up a year that can help children process their feelings at a gentle distance. Ask your local library for recommendations suited to your child’s age.
Make the Unfamiliar Familiar
If your child is starting at a new school, see if you can visit the building before the first day. Walk past it, look at photos on the school website, or watch any welcome videos the school has shared. Even small acts of familiarisation can reduce the sense of the unknown.
Involve Your Child in Preparations
Letting children choose their own stationery, help pack their bag, or pick their first-day hairstyle can give them a small but meaningful sense of control. Feeling prepared – practically as well as emotionally – builds confidence.
Prioritise Sleep
Sleep is one of the most powerful tools for emotional regulation. Children who are well-rested are far better equipped to manage the challenges of a new school year. A calm, predictable bedtime routine – screens off, low lighting, a consistent sequence of events – makes a real difference.
When to Seek Extra Support
Most school anxiety settles down once children are back in the routine of school life. But if your child’s anxiety feels severe, persistent, or is significantly affecting their daily life, it may be worth seeking additional support.
Occupational therapy can help identify the underlying factors contributing to your child’s anxiety – whether sensory, social, or emotional – and develop practical strategies to help them feel more settled and confident at school.
At Liverpool Occupational Therapy Services, we work closely with families and schools to make sure every child has the support they need to thrive. Get in touch to find out how we can help your child look forward to school, from September and beyond.