Brief
Experts warn of anxiety and sleep problems as children return to school
Matt Buttery and education specialists outline how to spot and ease back‑to‑school stress in children.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Returning to school can trigger anxiety, sleep disruption and other stress signs in children, experts said on October 10, 2026.
What happened
Matt Buttery, chief executive of the Triple P UK and Ireland parenting programme, explained that the shift from unrestricted summer holidays to a structured school day can feel like a major adjustment for pupils. He noted that children may experience mixed emotions, ranging from excitement to dread, and that new subjects, upcoming exams or changing schools add further pressure.
What the reports add
Buttery advised that trouble sleeping is a common early indicator. He recommended establishing consistent routines for waking, meals, homework, downtime and bedtime, and limiting screen use before sleep. Tiffnie Harris, policy specialist at the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), suggested parents use half‑term tutor meetings or settling‑in evenings to raise concerns constructively with schools.
What was said
"Many parents will be ready to get back into the routine the school term brings, but for children it can feel like a big adjustment," Buttery told Independent. "If you notice your child is struggling to get out of bed and regularly complaining about being tired, a great way to help them adjust is to create a consistent routine," he added.
Harris told the same outlet, "It’s vital this is done in a constructive way, as this will make the issue much easier to resolve. This is a key opportunity for parents to air any concerns and ask questions."
How it came about
The article builds on Felo News’ recent coverage of school‑related stress, including the October 4 piece on bridge courses for returning students, which highlighted similar adjustment challenges for children re‑entering education after a break.
Key facts
- Matt Buttery says the transition from summer holidays to school can cause mixed emotions and anxiety in children. (independent.co.uk)
- Sleep trouble is an early sign of back‑to‑school stress, according to Buttery. (independent.co.uk)
- Tiffnie Harris recommends parents discuss concerns at half‑term tutor meetings or settling‑in evenings. (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “The signs your child is struggling with returning to school and how to help”
