NORTH DAKOTA ( KXNET ) — Many kids have school-related worries and anxieties, but thankfully there are things to help ease their stress.

64% of kids aged nine to 13 have these worries, according to Nemours Children’s Health. It can range from bullying to academic challenges to not being invited to parties or friend groups.

“It could be separation anxiety, it could be any number of things,” explained Dr. Sue Varma. “Generalized anxiety, or social anxiety of ‘I don’t know how I’m going to make friends. I’m alone at recess. No one asks me to sit with them at lunch.'”

But homework is the number one stressor, affecting 50-60% of kids. And parents can help by using it as a way to connect with their children.

“For me, I have two school-aged children, and I look at that as our bonding opportunity,” Dr. Varma said. “It’s an opportunity for me to get a window into their day.”

Parents can also learn more about conversations that should be had with teachers when they’re helping kids with homework assignments.

“It gives you a springboard to say… ‘I’m noticing my kid is struggling with reading, with writing, with math.’ And then you pull the school into it because you have firsthand observed what’s going on,” continued Dr. Varma.

This is a great wat to establish an open line of communication for teachers.

“Ask your teachers things like, ‘Is my child having friends in class? Do they talk too much in class? Are they disruptive? Do they raise their hand? Do they feel shy? Do they take your feedback well? Are they open to criticism? Are they growing? Are they learning?’ The other thing I would say is, don’t be afraid of school counselors. They really have an interesting role, this line between academic, social, emotional, and it’s a safe space for your child to be able to share some of those worries,” explained Dr. Varma.

If kids are hesitant about sharing what’s going on, it’s also helpful to avoid open-ended questions like “how was your day?”

“Be very specific and use closed-ended questions,” Dr. Varma concluded. Ask things like “did you meet anyone new?” or “what did you learn today?”

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