27/08/2026
When anxiety looks like behaviour
As the new term approaches, anxiety may show up not in words, but in tummy aches, broken sleep, clinginess or meltdowns over seemingly small things. For some children, it becomes a strong reluctance - or refusal - to attend school.
School refusal is not simply โbad behaviourโ. It may be a sign that school feels unsafe, overwhelming or unmanageable.
Start with curiosity: What is school feeling like for this child right now? Listen without rushing to fix, notice patterns, and share observations between home and school. If distress persists or grows, seek support early.
When adults work together before anxiety escalates, children are more likely to feel understood, supported and able to reconnect with learning.
