Going back to school after summer break is never easy, but the return to face-to-face instruction presents a whole new set of challenges for kids and parents alike — so we sat down with Dr. Leigh Chancey to discuss some strategies for helping kids with the transition. Dr. Chancey is a licensed psychologist with clinical interests in pediatric integrated care. She has a master’s degree in school psychology and a doctorate in health psychology, and completed a post-doctoral fellowship in pediatric psychology. She also has years of experience in several North Carolina school systems and independent practices.
Q: As a pediatric psychologist, are there any challenges you anticipate for kids as they return to school and face-to-face instruction?
A: It’s typical for kids to experience stress starting a new school year, even in the absence of a pandemic. This year, many have not been attending face-to-face since the start of the COVID-19, which could lead to some increased feelings of social anxiety as well. Plus, many kids might be worried about their safety with the virus, which can also be a factor to increase health anxiety.
Q: What are some specific signs of stress and anxiety in kids that parents can be aware of? Do these differ based on age?
A: There are a few signs that can be indicators of stress and anxiety in kids. For younger kids who might not be as skilled at verbalizing their feelings, their behavioral cues are important. They might become overly irritable or uptight, start acting out, seek constant reassurance, or avoid certain activities or places that they used to enjoy. Some might develop physical complaints too, like belly aches, headaches, or just not “feeling well.” While older kids might be more likely to verbalize how they’re feeling, parents should still be aware of behavioral cues, for example being withdrawn in their room or avoiding social interactions and spending an excess amount of time on screens.
Q: Do you have any suggestions for how parents can help their child manage stress and anxiety?
A: Maintaining routine and healthy habits is just as important in managing stress for kids as it is adults. This includes keeping a consistent sleep schedule, being active, and setting limits with screen time as much as possible. It’s also really important for parents to model healthy coping strategies for their child. Having conversations about nervous feelings, encouraging positive self-talk with statements like ‘I can be brave,’ and encouraging relaxation techniques like belly breathing can all be useful in helping kids cope with their anxiety.
Q: When should parents seek professional help for their child’s anxiety?
A: If a child’s distress level is so high that it’s consistently impairing them from doing activities that are important to them — like attending school — that’s when I would suggest reaching out to your child’s doctor or other professional.
About Leigh Chancey, Ph.D.
Dr. Leigh Chancey is a licensed psychologist with clinical interests in pediatric integrated care, collaboration with school systems, early intervention, and autism spectrum, behavioral and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Chancey approaches caring for patients as an opportunity to work together with youth and their families to promote positive outcomes through implementation of evidence-based practice.
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