A Back-to-School Time Conversation with Olivia Kilton of Grand Strand Health
August 26, 2026
Helping our children cope and thrive as they return to school
By Karen Owens
Publisher
Most schools throughout the Lowcountry have been back in session for a couple of weeks now, but not all students enjoy heading back to the classroom. Instead of feeling excited, some of our young students can feel anxious about the uncertainty that comes with a new school year.
We recently spoke with Olivia Kilton, a child life specialist at Grand Strand Health, about helpful tips for parents and grandparents who may notice changes in their child’s behavior since going back to school.
Georgetown SC Gazette:
It’s been a few weeks since school started back in the area. How do parents know if their child is doing well with that transition, and what are some signs they should be aware of if the child doesn’t seem to be adapting to the new school year?
Olivia Kilton:
It takes children and adolescents a few weeks to adjust to a new school year, as they become used to new teachers, new classmates, and different routines. For younger children, it may be the first time being away from their parents. It’s important to develop a regular schedule and that can include extracurricular activities like sports or dance.
If the child starts to exhibit fidgety behavior or wanting to avoid certain activities, that may be a warning sign that they are not adjusting to the new schedule or routine. Sometimes they may complain of headaches or not feeling well, and other times you might notice a change in their eating or drinking habits.
Georgetown SC Gazette:
What are some tips for parents who notice these signs and how can they talk about back-to-school fears without dismissing or amplifying them? 
Olivia Kilton:
Parents need to communicate with the children about their days and listen for any signs where something may not sound normal. Listening to your child is very important, and you want to validate their feelings without talking down to them or making them feel bad. Having a strong relationship with your child will help facilitate trust and more open communication.
It’s also important to identify safe people at the school that your child can confide in when he or she is feeling anxious or overwhelmed. That could be their teacher or coach, or possibly a guidance counselor for older students. Someone who can listen to their concerns and offer reassurance or resources to help them navigate next steps. For older kids and teens, we know they rely on their peers as their support system so it’s vital to make sure they are surrounded with good people.
Georgetown SC Gazette:
Does any one age group have more anxiety than another or is it really common across the board?
Olivia Kilton:
It’s across the board. For older kids, their nervousness may be about new peers or fear about what’s next, such as college or career choices. Younger children may be more sensitive to new teachers or classmates. For some, it may be being away from their parents for several hours. It’s important to help describe for these children how the day will unfold in realistic terms.
Another thing parents can do to alleviate stress is allow the child to be part of the decision-making process the night before, either picking out what clothes to wear or packing their lunch for the next day. This allows the child to feel a sense of control that may help. And children can sense and feed off a parent’s energy. So if you’re feeling anxious or stressed as you take your child to school, they pick up and mirror that behavior. Remember – crying is a coping mechanism – but instilling some calm before the drop-off happens can help reduce the tears as they adjust to their new surroundings.
Georgetown SC Gazette:
When does a child’s anxiety warrant additional support? And as a child life specialist at Grand Strand Health, how do these coping strategies tie into the work you do with kids every day?
Olivia Kilton:
If you see your child struggle to adjust after several weeks, it’s ok to get help. Start with your child’s pediatrician or family practitioner to conduct an assessment and develop a plan to address their anxiousness or fears. For younger children, play can be a coping mechanism that helps them work through emotions they are facing and process what they are going through.
As a child life specialist, I work with patients who may be struggling with an upcoming surgery or medical emergency themselves, or they may have a parent or grandparent in the hospital or trauma center. My role is to support children and families during these medical experiences. I do this through several activities, including educational resources, emotional support, play therapy, and counseling services. The main goal is to collaborate with the family’s healthcare team to foster a family-centered care approach.
For additional back-to-school coping strategies and family support tools, explore the resources below:
Back to school with mental health in mind | Mental Health America
