Is Your Child Afraid of School?
How Should School Anxiety Be Managed?

With the start of the school year, Clinical Psychologist Gonca Malkoç Arı provided insights into school-related anxiety commonly seen in children. She emphasized that this period can be both exciting and anxiety-inducing for both children and parents.

Explaining that the beginning of school brings a mix of emotions such as the excitement of a new year, the desire to reunite with friends, and certain anxieties, Arı said:
"Some children will be experiencing school for the first time, while others will face the changes brought on by a new academic year. During this transition, it is completely natural for children to feel anxiety and fear from time to time. What matters most is that the child is mentally, physically, and psychologically prepared for starting school."

Noting that various emotions can be observed especially in children starting school for the first time, Arı shared the following information:
"A child’s adjustment to a new environment, separation from family members, or not feeling academically prepared can lead to performance anxiety. In addition, learning what school means, adapting to rules, meeting new teachers, and sharing the classroom with many peers can all have an emotional impact on children."

We Must Listen to Children Without Judgment
Speaking about how parents should behave during this process, Clinical Psychologist Gonca Malkoç Arı stated:
"Parents should communicate openly with their children during this period, regulate and stick to consistent sleep and nutrition routines, maintain a positive attitude, and listen to their children without judgment. If you observe anxiety, fear, or difficulties adapting in your child, I strongly recommend seeking support from a specialist."