Understanding School-Resistant Anxiety in Children: 3 Tips for Parents
Lately, we’ve had more calls to the clinic looking for support for children who are experiencing school-resistant anxiety. School-resistant anxiety, also referred to as school refusal, can be a significant challenge for many children and their families. Children who experience this form of anxiety experience extreme fear or worry about attending school, leading to frequent absences or behaviour struggles in the mornings. It can be difficult for parents to differentiate typical school reluctance from anxiety. Being able to recognize and address this issue is essential for a child’s emotional and academic well-being. Here are three practical tips for you to use to support your child in managing school-resistant anxiety.
What is School-Resistant Anxiety?
School-resistant anxiety often stems from a child’s fear of something related to the school environment, whether it’s doing well at school, social interactions, or separation anxiety. These anxieties can manifest as physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, or tantrums, when it’s time to go to school. Unlike typical school-related stress, school-resistant anxiety is more persistent and interferes with your child’s ability to attend regularly. These symptoms can cause concern to you as a parent as you struggle to get your child to attend and remain in school so they can progress academically.
Tip 1: Open Communication and Empathy
Creating an open line of communication is critical in helping children express their fears. Encourage your child to talk about what’s worrying them, and listen without judgment. Sometimes, your child might not fully understand their feelings. It is important to be patient. Child anxiety experts confirm that the parent-child relationship plays a crucial role in managing anxiety, and parents should focus on reducing accommodations that reinforce anxious behaviour. Instead of allowing avoidance, help your child face their fears gradually by acknowledging their emotions while promoting small steps toward overcoming anxiety.
Tip 2: Establish a Consistent Routine
Children thrive on routines, especially those struggling with anxiety. Maintaining a predictable morning routine can help reduce anxiety about school. Ensure your child gets enough sleep, eats a healthy breakfast, and leaves enough time for getting ready. Maintaining consistent routines provides a sense of security and predictability for your child. This helps reduce the overwhelming nature of transitions, like going to school. If mornings are particularly difficult, consider practicing the routine with your child on weekends to ease some of the tension during school days.
Tip 3: Gradual Exposure to School
Gradual exposure is an effective method for helping children with school-resistant anxiety. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) often employs this strategy to desensitize children to their fear of school by slowly introducing them back into the environment that triggers their anxiety. Start small, such as visiting the school when it’s empty or having brief conversations with a teacher, and gradually increase the time spent in school settings. Celebrating small victories along the way can encourage progress.
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