It's that time of year again when kids around the country are gearing up to head back to school. For some, this is an exciting time full of new opportunities and experiences.

For others, it can be a time of anxiety and fear.

Whether your child is anxious about making new friends or being in a new environment, don't worry: we've got you covered.

CBS News Colorado recently interviewed Dr. Anat Geva, an expert on children's anxiety, who provided some great tips on how to talk to your kids about going back to school. 

Start By Asking Your Child Questions

One of the best ways to ease your child's anxiety is by talking to them about it.

Start by asking them how they're feeling about going back to school and what, specifically, they're worried about.

Dr. Geva recommends asking questions, and this means asking them directly if they are anxious about going back to school.

It's important to normalize and validify their feelings. This might also be a good chance to consider the expectations.

If the child is reluctant, then they help them identify positive expectations.

This will give you a better idea of how to address their concerns. 

If the Anxiety is Severe, You May Want to Seek Professional Help

Back-to-school anxiety in Colorado is a real thing. For some kids, the thought of starting a new school year is so overwhelming that it can interfere with their ability to function at home and school.

If your child is having severe back-to-school anxiety, it might be time to seek professional help.

A therapist can help your child understand and manage their feelings, and they can also provide tools and strategies for dealing with anxiety.

In addition, a therapist can help to identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to the anxiety.

With professional help, your child can overcome back-to-school anxiety and start the new year off on the right foot.

Seek Out Resources

There are professional support, books, articles, and many other sources of information and support.

The most important thing is to reach out and ask for help when you need it.

They also mentioned the importance of parents connecting with other parents. They might be going through the same thing, and connecting with them can help you identify what works on their end.

This is great because it can help to normalize the experience for your child.

If you're struggling with back-to-school anxiety, know that you're not alone. There are many resources out there to help you and your child through this tough time. 

Overcomers Counseling Has Professional Counselors Who Can Help Your Child with Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal part of life, but for some children, it can be overwhelming.

If your child is struggling to cope with anxiety in Colorado Springs, our professional counselors at Overcomers Counseling can help.

They specialize in helping children and families overcome anxiety and other mental health challenges.

The team of counselors is experienced in working with children of all ages and can tailor a treatment plan to meet your child's specific needs.

They offer a variety of counseling services, including individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy.

They also provide workshops and support groups for parents.

With their help, your child can learn to manage their anxiety and live a happy, healthy life. 

Try to Be Supportive and Encouraging

Once you know what your child is worried about, it's important to be supportive and encouraging.

Let them know that you understand how they're feeling and that you're there for them.

Try to avoid downplaying their anxieties or telling them they're being silly – this will only make them feel worse.

Instead, focus on the positive and remind them of all the things they're good at.

Help them to see that they can handle whatever comes their way.

If you need help, don't be afraid to ask for it. Parenting is hard work, and there's no shame in admitting that you need a little help sometimes.

If you're struggling to support your child through back-to-school anxiety, reach out to a therapist or counselor who can help.

It's important to get help early on before the anxiety starts to interfere with school or home life. 

FAQs

How do I know if my child has back-to-school anxiety?

You can start by asking them how they're feeling about going back to school.

If they seem unusually worried or stressed, it might be a sign that they're struggling with back-to-school anxiety.

Other signs include changes in sleeping or eating habits, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and avoidance of school-related activities.

Can back-to-school anxiety be prevented?

There is no surefire way to prevent back-to-school anxiety, but there are some things you can do to help your child feel more prepared and confident. Talk to them about what to expect in the new school year and help them to create a positive mindset.

Support Systems are Important

Make sure they have a good support system at home – this could include you, other family members, or close friends. If your child already has back-to-school anxiety, there are still things you can do to help them cope. Talk to their teacher and see if they can provide extra support or accommodations.

What can I do to help my child manage their anxiety?

If you're unsure about whether or not your child has back-to-school anxiety in Colorado Springs, it's always best to consult with a professional.

They can help you to assess the situation and determine whether or not your child is experiencing anxiety.

If they are, they can provide you with tips and strategies for helping your child to manage their anxiety. 

Conclusion

Back-to-school anxiety is a common problem, but it doesn't have to ruin your child's school year. With a little help, they can overcome their anxiety and start the new year off on the right foot. 

If you think your child might be struggling with back-to-school anxiety in Colorado Springs, don't hesitate to reach out for help. A counselor or therapist can provide you with the support and guidance you need to get through this tough time.