Helping Kids Cope with School Anxiety

It’s not uncommon for kids to push back against going to school, but sometimes what looks like stubbornness is really anxiety. Many children feel nervous about separating from parents, facing social situations, keeping up with academics, or adjusting to changes in routine. These worries can show up as stomachaches, headaches, or meltdowns in the morning, making the start of the day stressful for the whole family. At Brightside Behavioral Health, we work with individuals and families in Johnston, Cranston, Warwick, Riverside, and through telehealth across Rhode Island and Massachusetts.   

The first step is understanding what’s driving your child’s resistance. Instead of saying “you’ll be fine,” try validating their feelings with something like, “I know this feels hard right now.” Kids feel calmer when their emotions are acknowledged. Keeping a predictable routine can also help mornings feel more manageable, and taking small steps, like meeting with a teacher in advance or arranging time with classmates outside of school, can ease the transition. Parents play an important role by modeling healthy coping skills such as deep breathing or positive self talk, which kids naturally learn by watching. 

Sometimes school anxiety becomes more than families can handle on their own. If your child’s worries start interfering with daily life, therapy can provide a safe space to process fears and learn strategies for building confidence. At Brightside Behavioral Health, our team provides individual therapy for children, teens, and adults, as well as couples and family therapy. We also offer comprehensive medication management, both on its own and in combination with therapy, so you can find the level of support that fits your needs best. We provide in person sessions in Johnston, Cranston, Riverside, and Warwick, and also offer telehealth so families across Rhode Island and Massachusetts can access care in a way that works best for them. 

School anxiety doesn’t have to take over your mornings. With patience, the right tools, and professional support, kids can learn to feel secure and capable both in and out of the classroom. Brightside Behavioral Health is here to walk alongside your family with compassionate care and practical solutions.