For many children, school should be a place of learning, friendship, and growth. But for some, it can also be a source of fear and anxiety. With increasing reports of bullying, school violence, and social pressures, children may struggle with feeling safe and secure in their school environment. As parents, educators, and caregivers, it’s vital that we not only recognize these fears, but also provide children with tools and support to navigate them effectively.
Understanding the Root of the Fear
Children’s fears about school safety can stem from a variety of sources. News coverage of school shootings, hearing adults talk about violence, personal experiences with bullying, or even drills meant to protect them can trigger anxiety. For younger children, fears may show up as physical symptoms—headaches, stomachaches, or refusal to go to school—while older children might express their concerns more directly or withdraw socially.
It’s important to validate their feelings. Avoid dismissing their fears with “You’ll be fine” or “Nothing bad is going to happen.” Instead, open up a dialogue:
- “What’s making you feel scared?”
- “Has something happened at school that made you uncomfortable?”
- “What would help you feel safer?”
Giving them space to speak about their fears is the first step toward empowering them to cope.
Providing Reassurance Through Routine and Support
Children thrive on consistency. Establishing predictable routines before and after school can create a sense of normalcy and safety. Whether it’s a special goodbye handshake, a note in their lunchbox, or an after-school check-in, these small gestures reinforce a sense of security and connection.
Additionally, help them identify the trusted adults at school—teachers, counselors, the school nurse—whom they can turn to if they feel unsafe. Let them know it’s okay to ask for help, and role-play scenarios where they practice speaking up or seeking assistance.
Teaching Emotional Regulation and Coping Strategies
Children, like adults, benefit from learning how to manage stress and anxiety. Breathing exercises, mindfulness practices, and journaling can all be age-appropriate tools for emotional regulation. Introducing these strategies at home or in the classroom gives kids a way to calm their minds and bodies when fear arises.
One particularly effective method to help children process fear and build resilience is The Imagine Project.
Introducing The Imagine Project
The Imagine Project is a free, journaling tool designed to help children express and process challenging emotions through writing. Created by Dianne Maroney, a nurse and child advocate, this project empowers children to write their own “Imagine” stories—narratives that begin with the word “Imagine” and explore their personal experiences, struggles, and hopes.
For example, a child might write:
“Imagine feeling scared to walk into school every day. Imagine your heart racing when you hear a loud noise. Imagine having someone to talk to who listens and helps you feel brave.”
By writing out their thoughts in this structured way, children are able to externalize their fears, find validation, and begin to reframe their experiences in a more hopeful, empowered light. Teachers and counselors often use The Imagine Project in classrooms to build empathy, community, and emotional resilience among students.
You can access free journaling templates and resources at www.theimagineproject.org. The site offers tools for all ages, making it easy to integrate into home or school environments.
Creating a Culture of Safety and Empathy
Ultimately, helping children feel safe at school is a shared responsibility. When adults model empathy, open communication, and proactive problem-solving, children learn to do the same. Encourage schools to foster inclusive environments, train staff in trauma-informed practices, and make mental health support a priority.
By listening, supporting, and providing creative outlets like The Imagine Project, we can help children not only feel safer, but also become more resilient in the face of fear. Their voices matter—and when we make space for them, powerful healing can begin. You can begin by downloading the free journals here.
Thank you,
Dianne Maroney, RN, MSN
Dianne is the founder and CEO of The Imagine Project, Inc., a nonprofit organization that helps children K-12 (and adults) process and heal from difficult life circumstances through expressive writing. Dianne has her Masters in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing, is a thought leader in stress and trauma in children and has written multiple award-winning books including The Imagine Project: Empowering Kids to Rise Above Drama, Trauma, and Stress. She is an international speaker, lives in Colorado and has 3 grown children. Learn more about The Imagine Project at www.theimagineproject.org.
