Dealing with school anxiety

(FOX Providence) - As many kids head back to school, it's normal for some to experience some nerves or jitters. But it's important to know when a child is just playing hookey, and when the problem goes deeper than it may seem.

According to Bradley Hospital, 5% of children experience school avoidance, or school refusal.

Dr. Angela Stewart stopped by the Rhode Show to explain this problem, and how families can deal with it.

Dr. Stewart says parents should watch for signs of school anxiety, such as tantrums and complaints of vague physical symptoms like headaches.

Although it can happen at any age, it’s most common in children ages 5 to 7 and 11 to 14—the time when many children are transitioning to elementary and middle school.

For more information on school avoidance, bradleyhospital.org .