What Teachers Should Know
Anxiety disorders in children are common. Based on research there is a high probability that there are one or more students in each elementary school class that have an anxiety disorder which has or has not not been diagnosed. In school, students with an anxiety disorder may:
- have trouble concentrating in class or completing classwork
- feel self-conscious and avoid certain situations
- have physical symptoms, such as a racing heart, fast breathing, tense muscles, sweaty palms, a queasy stomach, and trembling hands or legs
- miss class time due to problems coping at school, or needing to talk with a school counselor or therapist
What Teachers Can Do
Teachers can help ease anxiety levels by:
- talking with parents or guardians to learn about strategies that work at home
- allowing students extra time to do work
- checking that their assignments are written down correctly
- giving students structure such as a daily schedule
- modifying assignments and reducing workloads when necessary
- promoting relaxation techniques and allowing for breaks throughout day
- encouraging school attendance, which may require shortened school days and modified class schedules
- allowing students a safe space and ability to go speak with a counselor, if needed
- easing anxiety in the classroom by pairing with a peer
It is important for there to be clear communication between the school and the child and his or her family. Guidance counselors or teachers who are aware of the anxiety disorder and can identify when the child needs help in school, is invaluable to the success of the child in school.
