Is your child already stressed about going back to school?

You’re not imagining it, and they’re not being dramatic. For many autistic and ADHD kids, the anxiety starts weeks before the first bell even rings.

This isn’t fear. It’s anxiety.

Fear is a reaction to something happening right now. Anxiety is about everything that might happen, and it often comes from not knowing what to expect.

A lot of autistic/ADHD children rely on predictability to feel safe. School is full of unknowns: new teachers, new routines, new sounds, new rules. That uncertainty builds up in their minds and bodies until they’re overwhelmed before they even get there.

Giving your child a few key details ahead of time can make a big difference. Knowing who their teacher is, where their classroom will be, or how long the school day is can help them feel more in control.

But, and this is important, sometimes too much detail makes things worse. It can give them more to obsess over or worry about, especially if things change. So it’s about finding the right balance. They need enough to help them feel prepared, not so much that it fuels their anxiety.

Here’s what you can try:

• Stick to what’s definite, like times and names.

• Be honest if things might change.

• Use simple routines to build confidence.

• Reassure them that it’s okay to feel unsure, they need to feel heard.

If this sounds like your child and you want more practical support, Autism and Anxiety is a brilliant place to start. You can find out more details below.

Click here to find out more!

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Parents express concern as their child lies awake, anxiously pondering the upcoming school year.