08/23/2026
Back-to-school season can bring big feelings—for kids and parents. 🎒💜
Even children who are excited to return to school may also be navigating worries about new teachers, friendships, academics, routines, separation, or simply not knowing what to expect.
And those feelings don’t always sound like “I’m anxious.”
They might look like irritability, trouble sleeping, extra clinginess, stomachaches, meltdowns, difficulty focusing, or suddenly not wanting to go to school.
As we head into a new school year, try creating space for conversation without immediately trying to fix the feeling.
Instead of only asking, “Are you excited for school?” try:
💜 What are you looking forward to most?
💜 Is there anything you’re worried about?
💜 What do you think might feel hard?
💜 What would help you feel more comfortable?
💜 Is there anything you want me to know before school starts?
Sometimes kids don’t need us to take the worry away—they need to know they can bring it to us.
Here’s to a school year filled with growth, confidence, connection, and plenty of grace along the way. 💜
Center for Specialized Psychology
Supporting children, teens & families through every season of growth.
Specialized therapy for women and children, offering attentive teletherapy services and comprehensive treatment options to promote mental wellness.