If your child says “my tummy hurts” or “I don’t feel good” every morning before school, you’re not alone. Many parents deal with school refusal or school anxiety in the early grades. Kids might complain of stomachaches, headaches, or even leg pain before school—and yet a trip to the doctor often shows nothing is physically wrong.
That’s because for many children, especially around age six, worry shows up in the body. Instead of saying “I’m nervous about school,” kids often say “my tummy hurts.” The feelings are real—anxiety can cause very real aches and pains.
The good news? A simple morning affirmation routine can help calm those nerves, reframe worries, and make the transition to school smoother.
Why Kids Say Their Tummy Hurts Before School
School anxiety is common in early elementary. Common triggers include:
- Separation anxiety – fear of being away from a parent or caregiver.
- New routines – adjusting to new teachers, classmates, or academics.
- Social worries – friendship struggles, feeling left out, or classroom overwhelm.
- Mind-body connection – anxiety often causes physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches.
Recognizing that your child’s complaints are rooted in feelings, not fakery, is the first step toward helping.
A 4-Step Morning Affirmation Routine
Try this quick, playful routine before school. It only takes 2–3 minutes and can reduce those “tummy aches” caused by worry.
1. Magic Breath
Take three big balloon breaths together—inhale through the nose, puff out your belly like a balloon, and slowly exhale. Say: “We’re filling up with calm and letting worries float away.”
2. Brave Body Check
Tap or wiggle each body part as you say:
- “My head is ready to learn.”
- “My heart is ready to be kind.”
- “My tummy is strong and brave.”
- “My legs are ready to run and play.”
This reframes physical complaints as signs of strength, not weakness.
3. School Affirmation
Say together (end with a high-five):
“I am safe. I am smart. I am kind. I can do hard things. Today is going to be a good day!”
4. Goodbye Ritual
End with a consistent, loving send-off: a hug, a secret handshake, or even a kiss pressed into their palm. Predictable goodbyes help kids feel secure.
How Affirmations Help With School Refusal
- Build confidence: Kids learn to believe in their ability to handle challenges.
- Ease transitions: A predictable ritual makes mornings calmer.
- Reduce anxiety symptoms: Naming and reframing feelings can ease those “tummy aches.”
- Strengthen connection: Starting the day with a moment of calm closeness helps kids feel safe.
Morning school battles can feel overwhelming, but simple rituals really do make a difference. If your child struggles with school anxiety or morning tummy aches, affirmations give them words of strength and reassurance. And if the worries persist, you can always reach out to your child’s teacher or school counselor for added support.
And when you’re looking for more screen-free, confidence-building activities for after school or weekends, our Buggy Bags are designed to keep kids engaged and happy—no matter where life takes you.