For many families, back-to-school season means buying supplies, adjusting schedules, and getting organized. But for children who struggle with anxiety, the return to class can bring a different kind of preparation.

Boys Town Behavioral Health experts say they continue to see more children and teens struggling with stress, worry and emotional overwhelm. Counselors with the Boys Town National Hotline and Text Line also hear from young people and parents dealing with school pressure, anxiety, peer issues, and mental health concerns.

“Back-to-school anxiety does not always look like a child saying, ‘I’m nervous,’” says Dr. Christopher Blank, Behavioral Health Expert at Boys Town Behavioral Health Clinic. “It may look like irritability, stomachaches, trouble sleeping, avoiding conversations about school, or suddenly needing more reassurance from a parent. Those can all be signs a child is carrying more stress than they know how to explain.”

Blank says parents do not need to have the perfect answer for every worry. What matters most is helping children feel heard, prepared, and not alone as the school year begins.

Boys Town South Florida recommends families start with a few simple steps before the first day:

Ease Back Into the School Schedule:
Start moving bedtime and wake-up times closer to the school routine at least a week or two before school begins. Sleep can have a major impact on mood, focus, and a child’s ability to handle stress.

Ask Specific Questions About What Feels Hard:
Instead of asking, “Are you excited for school?” try, “What part of going back feels the most stressful?” or “Is there anything you’re worried about with your teacher, friends, or schedule?” Parents should listen before trying to fix the problem.

Practice the Routine Before It Counts:
A dry run of the morning routine can help younger children, especially those starting a new school or grade. Practice getting up, getting dressed, packing a bag, and leaving on time.

Make the Unknown More Familiar:
If possible, visit the school, walk by the classroom, review the schedule, or talk through what drop-off and pick-up will look like. For anxious kids, small details can make a big difference.

Create a Plan for Anxious Moments:

Help children name one or two things they can do if they feel overwhelmed at school, such as taking slow breaths, asking to see the counselor, going to a trusted teacher, or writing down what they are feeling.

Keep Checking in After the First Day:
Some children hold it together at school and fall apart at home. Others may seem fine at first, but anxiety builds after the routine sets in. A few quiet minutes each day can help parents notice when a child needs more support.

“Feeling nervous about school is normal,” Blank said. “But when anxiety starts getting in the way of a child’s sleep, relationships, school attendance or daily routine, it is time to reach out for help.”

The Boys Town National Hotline is available 24/7 by calling 800-448-3000. Children, teens, and parents can also text VOICE to 20121 or visit YourLifeYourVoice.org for support from trained counselors. For information about making an in-person appointment, visit www.boystown.org/south-florida/behavioral-health.