Early Parent Intervention for School Anxiety: Why It Matters
School anxiety is becoming increasingly common for kids in elementary and middle school — especially after long weekends, holidays, or big schedule changes. What starts as a few rough mornings can quickly grow into school avoidance, emotional overwhelm, and daily stress for the whole family.
At Cariño Counseling Collective, I offer a Parent Consultation to help families address early school anxiety before it becomes a more disruptive pattern.
What Is a Parent Consultation?
A Parent Consultation is a focused, 60-minute meeting (virtual or in person) for parents of children in grades 2–8 who are experiencing school anxiety or beginning to avoid school.
This is not a therapy session for the child — it’s a parent-centered intervention grounded in research, offering strategies that reduce anxiety-based behaviors and support the child’s confidence.
You’ll receive:
A detailed pre-consult questionnaire
A one-hour consultation tailored to your child’s needs
A written summary with clear recommendations
Strategies for home routines, school collaboration, and next steps
$165 self-pay
Why Address School Anxiety Early?
Avoidance gives kids temporary relief, which teaches the brain that avoiding school is the “safer” option. Without support, this cycle grows quickly.
Early parent intervention helps:
Prevent ongoing school refusal
Reduce morning stress and power struggles
Keep kids connected to school, peers, and routine
Increase a child’s sense of capability
Create calmer, more predictable mornings
Parents are the ones supporting children during the moments when anxiety shows up most — mornings, transitions, homework, and drop-offs.
What We Focus On During the Consultation
Together, we explore:
What triggers your child’s anxiety
Patterns in morning routines or separation
What strategies have been tried
How the school can partner with you
What happens to the parents’ emotional regulation when the chlid’s anxiety is triggered
You leave with realistic steps that support your child without reinforcing anxiety.
Is This a Good Fit for Your Family?
A Parent Consultation can help if your child:
Struggles after breaks or long weekends
Has morning stomachaches, panic, or tears
Asks to stay home or avoids getting ready
Has difficulty separating from you
Feels overwhelmed socially or academically
It’s also ideal for parents who want guidance now and aren’t sure whether therapy is needed yet.
School Anxiety Doesn’t Have to Take Over Your Mornings
With early, compassionate parent intervention, school anxiety can improve quickly. A clear plan helps your child feel calmer, more capable, and better supported each school day.
Learn more or schedule a Parent Consultation at: www.carinocounselingcollective.com/appointment-inquiry
