As summer ends, many parents begin to worry about the return to school. For some children, even the idea of walking back into school creates stress. This stress often appears as school refusal or avoidant behavior. Early intervention for school refusal and higher levels of care in response to these signs can affect school attendance and emotional health for the entire year.
What School Refusal Looks Like in August
In August, signs of school refusal often start to appear. Children may resist talking about school or complain about headaches and stomachaches as the start date approaches. Watch for changes in mood, sleep, or appetite. These symptoms may signal anxiety about returning to school.
You may hear your child say they feel sick or express fear about certain teachers or classmates. Some children avoid back-to-school conversations or refuse to attend school-related events. Meeting with a school counselor early allows you to better understand these behaviors and develop a plan.
Early Intervention Leads to Better Results
Families who take action before school starts often notice better results. Children who enter the year with support already in place tend to feel more secure. School psychologists and counselors can recommend strategies that reduce fear and build confidence.
Support at home also matters. Create routines and allow space for open conversations about concerns. Help your child set small goals for the first few weeks. A familiar morning structure and simple steps toward reentry lower stress and increase success.
How Higher Levels of Care Work
When school refusal reaches a more severe level, outpatient therapy may not offer enough support. Higher levels of care provide focused treatment that helps children face these fears in a structured, supportive way. These programs often include therapy that teaches children how to manage anxiety and build coping tools.
You may work with a team that includes school counselors, therapists, and child psychologists. Together, this group builds a plan that targets school-related fears and supports smoother reintegration. School refusal and higher levels of care help reduce school refusal and create healthier habits over time.
Teen Anxiety Rises Before School Resumes
Teen anxiety often spikes as the first day of school nears. The shift from summer freedom to school demands can feel abrupt. Teens may stop talking about school, complain about vague aches, or seem more irritable.
Anxiety may grow from fears about fitting in, workload pressure, or past school experiences. Talk with your teen about their thoughts. Show that you want to listen without judgment. A counselor or therapist can also help teens name their worries and develop a plan to face them.
Families Can Shape the Year Ahead
Parents shape how their children approach school. Conversations at home help uncover the reasons behind school avoidance. Once these concerns become clear, you can start solving the issues together. A calm tone and open questions can reveal more than direct pressure or constant reminders.
Support your child with small, manageable goals. Attend school meetings, ask for updates, and connect with teachers when needed. Presence shows your child they do not have to face school alone. When parents stay involved, children tend to feel safer and more confident about the year ahead.
Schedule a Consultation with Alis Behavioral Health
Families facing school refusal benefit from expert support. A consultation with Alis Behavioral Health offers a first step toward progress. Our team understands how anxiety shapes behavior and how to respond with care that works.
In your consultation, we will talk about your child’s challenges and explore options tailored to your needs. Contact Alis Behavioral Health by calling (888) 528-3860 or using our online contact form. We will work with your family to build a plan that fits your goals and prepares your child for the school year.
