12/02/2026
Back to school anxiety-
with Psychologist Mylee Hawkins
Why is your child anxious?
* New teacher
* Varied routines
* Different expectations
* Changes in friend groups
* Varied routines
* Unfamiliar environments
What anxiety might look like-
* Meltdowns
* Big emotions
* Clingyness
* Tummy aches
* Irritability
* School refusal
Tips for helping kindergarten children:
Slow down, try not to rush, allow plenty of time in the morning.
Young children rely heavily on
co-regulation (borrowing your calm,
to settle their own bodies emotions).
Short, confident goodbyes help more than lingering. Predictably builds trust.
Practice independence skills gently -lunch boxes, toileting, asking for help.
Independence helps their confidence will grow.
Tips for helping students of all ages:
Consistency helps calm the nervous system: predictable bedtimes, morning routines and clear plans reduce uncertainty.
Name and normalise their feelings:
“It makes sense that you feel nervous - lots of kids feel this way when things change.”
Instead of over-reassuring with comments like “You’ll be fine!”
Try “I know this is hard, and I believe you can handle it.”
Focus on coping strategies, not removing their anxiety. Their confidence grows when children learn THEY can manage uncomfortable feelings.
Always try to connect before you correct - children regulate better when they feel safe and understood.
Anxiety is not the enemy - it’s our protective system doing its job a little too loudly.
With support, predictability and emotional safety, most children adjust beautifully.
But if anxiety is persistent, intense or worsening, early support can make a big difference.
Mylee Hawkins (Psychologist)
The Health Collective
54 Denman Ave Woolooware
www.thehealthco.com.au
📞 9585 2346
