When children are struggling with emotional or behavioral problems, it’s often in the classroom that they show up most starkly. Difficulty following directions, focusing on schoolwork, transitioning from one activity to the other, tolerating frustration, getting along with other kids — these can all be signs that kids are overwhelmed by emotions they’re having trouble managing.

Understanding what’s bothering kids with anxiety isn’t easy, but it is the crucial first step to helping them handle those strong emotions, meet expectations for behavior, and concentrate on learning.

Read more about anxiety in the classroom here