# Childhood stress during school transitions > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/childhood-stress-during-school-transitions > Updated: 2026-09-11T08:33:03.000Z. Sources: 23. Developments: 2. The transition to the new school year has been identified as a period of significant psychological and physical stress for children. Initial reports indicate that academic pressure, new routines, and social adjustments can trigger or exacerbate involuntary motor and vocal tics, such as blinking or throat clearing. Experts note that while stress may not create these sensitivities from nothing, it acts as a catalyst for pre-existing conditions. Further observations highlight broader emotional challenges, including anxiety, irritability, sleep disturbances, and physical complaints like stomach aches. Specialists emphasize the importance of validating children’s emotions and providing non-judgmental spaces for expression, noting that neuropsychologist Anna Flávia Trindade de Freitas suggests many children fear being perceived as weak when sharing their struggles. As the 2026-2027 academic year commences, psychological well-being remains a central focus. Experts continue to emphasize recognizing anxiety and emotional distress, which may manifest through behavioral changes or physical symptoms. In response to these challenges, educational initiatives such as social coexistence days in Ourense aim to foster empathy and combat rising rates of school bullying. Additionally, pediatricians have advised parents to prioritize monitoring developmental readiness during this transition period. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-11: Global school year 2026-2027 begins with new policies and mental health focus The 2026-2027 school year begins with diverse regional policies, holiday schedules in Mexico and Honduras, and a focus on managing student anxiety and emotional well-being during the transition. 20 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/childhood-anxiety-during-the-return-to-school ### 2026-09-07: School stress linked to emergence of childhood tics School-related stress, anxiety, and fatigue can trigger or intensify involuntary motor and vocal tics in children, often surfacing during the transition to a new academic year. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/school-stress-linked-to-emergence-of-childhood-tics --- Cite as: Childhood stress during school transitions. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/childhood-stress-during-school-transitions