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.
Want help making sense of your child’s school anxiety?
Download my free School Anxiety Checklist to quickly spot what might be driving your child’s school‑based worries, so you know where they most need support.
You’ll get a simple, parent‑friendly checklist you can use to:
- Get a clearer picture of why school feels so hard
- Spot where your child may need extra support at home and in school
- Feel more confident about what to raise with school staff and professionals
Nicky Odgers
