Louisville Pediatrician Offers Strategies to Manage Children's School-Year Anxiety

Louisville pediatrician offers guidance for parents on easing children's anxiety during the back-to-school period LOUISVILLE, Ky. — As the new school year approaches, many children and parents experience heightened anxiety, making open conversations about feelings essential. Dr. Katy Hopkins from Norton Children's Hospital appeared on WDRB Mornings to share practical tips for helping children cope with back-to-school nerves. Dr. Hopkins emphasized that feeling anxious about new or unfamiliar situations is entirely normal. "It's common to feel apprehensive when facing something new or after a break," she explained. She encouraged parents to foster confidence in their children by displaying their own calmness and understanding. "Parents should convey confidence that their child will handle the upcoming challenges," Hopkins advised. She recommended that parents acknowledge their child's feelings, saying, 'I understand you're feeling a bit anxious, but I believe in your ability to manage this.' However, she cautioned that persistent or intense anxiety might signal a more significant issue. "You can tell when your child is genuinely unwell by their eyes or behavior. If a child's anx...