For many Nigerian parents raising children in the UK, education is top priority. But beyond grades and Ofsted reports, there’s a growing issue that affects our children’s ability to thrive — school-related anxiety.
Globally, studies show anxiety among children and young people has risen sharply in the past few decades, and the UK is no exception. More children are showing signs of fear of school, avoidance of classes, sleep problems, and difficulty concentrating — all of which affect learning and wellbeing.
The good news? If parents can spot the early warning signs, simple steps taken at home and with schools can make a big difference.
The Bigger Picture
A Global Public Health study in 2024 found that anxiety disorders among young people (10–24 years) rose by 52% between 1990 and 2021, with a sharper increase after 2019.
In the UK, factors like bullying, social media pressure, cultural adjustment for immigrant families, and the pandemic have contributed. For Nigerian parents, this means we must look beyond just “book work” and pay attention to our children’s emotional wellbeing.
Early Signs Nigerian Parents Should Watch Out For
School anxiety doesn’t always look like a child crying or saying “I don’t want to go to school.” Sometimes, it shows up in quieter ways:
- Reluctance to attend school, especially after holidays or sickness.
- Complaints of headaches or stomach aches that disappear during weekends.
- Drop in grades, lack of focus, or changes in appetite/sleep.
- Younger kids being unusually clingy at drop-off or expressing fears of being left alone.
- Older children showing perfectionism, test anxiety, or fear of being judged socially.
For Nigerian families in the UK, these signs can easily be mistaken for “laziness” or “lack of seriousness.” But often, they are genuine red flags for anxiety.
Practical Steps Nigerian Parents Can Take
- Start with calm conversations: Encourage your child to share what feels difficult. Avoid dismissing it as “just fear.” Listening validates their feelings.
- Work with the school: UK schools often offer pastoral care, counsellors, or access to NHS school-linked services. Don’t hesitate to ask about screening or referrals.
- Try parent-led CBT tools: Research shows that structured, guided Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (sometimes available online) can help children reduce anxiety — and is easier for busy parents.
- Check yourself too: Nigerian parents often carry work stress, financial pressure, or migration-related worries. Children pick up on this. Managing your own stress helps your child regulate theirs.
- Avoid reinforcing avoidance: Keeping a child home might provide short-term relief, but it strengthens the anxiety cycle. Instead, work with teachers on a gradual return plan if needed.
Final Thoughts
School anxiety is more common than it used to be — and it’s not a sign of weakness or poor parenting. For Nigerians in the UK, the key is early detection, using school-linked resources, and taking care of our own stress as parents.
Think of it like malaria back home — the earlier you spot it, the easier it is to treat. Don’t wait until it becomes a major crisis.
👉 If you’re worried, talk to your child, speak with the school, and seek professional support if needed. A confident child today is a stronger adult tomorrow.
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