Anxiety In A Backpack: Big Feelings, Little People

In this episode of Heart Full, Mind Heavy, we’re opening up about something so many parents are facing. School anxiety and avoidance in children

We talk about what it looks like when big feelings show up in little people: the tummy aches, the tears at the school gate, the explosive mornings, and the quiet withdrawal. This isn’t about “bad behaviour” it’s about fear, overwhelm, and what happens when the world feels too loud, too fast, or just too much.

We share our own lived experiences as mums trying to support our children through these challenges  the guilt, the second-guessing, and the emotional toll it can take on the whole family.

We’re also joined by our brilliant expert guest, Sara Donnelly, who brings warmth, wisdom, and practical insights into why school avoidance happens, how to support children through it and what really helps both them and us feel more secure.

If you’re walking this path (or know someone who is), this episode is a gentle, honest reminder: you're not alone, and neither are they.

Follow Sara on:

Instagram - @saradonnelly_3ls

TikTok - @sensupportwithsara

https://threelittlesteps.com/

Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartfull_mindheavy/

Email us at: info@heartfullmindheavy.co.uk

Thanks for listening!