How to support autistic children with school-based anxiety.
Mar 11, 2025Recent research suggests that up to 80% of children who worry about school are autistic.
Anxiety is common among autistic individuals, with the National Autistic Society estimating that 40-50% of the autistic population may receiving a clinical diagnosis.
High anxiety levels in autistic children largely stem from navigating a world designed for non-autistic individuals. Key challenges include overwhelming sensory environments, differences in social development, masking autistic traits, a preference for certainty in unpredictable school settings, and differences in emotional processing.
To support autistic children in school:
- Identify specific triggers of anxiety so you can address the right challenges.
- Work with the school to adjust the environment and reduce stressors.
- Teach autistic children how to recognize, express, and regulate emotions.
- Ensure they have time to rest and recover from cumulative stress brought about by masking and sensory overload.
Is your child worried about school?
If so, download my free guide "The 12 most important things to do when your child is worried about going to school". The link is in the sidebar.
Take a look at my free three-part School Anxiety Support mini-series. It covers how to support your child with the morning routine, what support to advocate for and how to cope with your own wellbeing in challenging circumstances.
Nicky Odgers
