Back-to-School Anxiety? These Ottawa Activities Help Kids Cope

The end of summer break is often bittersweet. For some kids, the return to school brings not just backpacks and timetables—but a wave of anxiety. And they’re not alone. Studies show that as many as one in five children experiences significant back-to-school anxiety, especially during transitions like starting a new grade, school, or classroom environment.

What helps? According to the Canadian Paediatric Society and numerous peer-reviewed studies, physical activity is one of the most effective tools to reduce stress and improve mental health in children. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins and other “feel-good” chemicals like serotonin, which help regulate mood and manage anxiety. It also improves sleep, builds confidence, and offers a break from the cognitive overload that comes with the school day.

In fact, research published in Frontiers in Psychology found that even brief bouts of physical activity can significantly improve children’s emotional regulation and reduce anxiety levels. And a review from BMC Public Health confirmed that regular active play promotes resilience and helps children better manage emotional ups and downs.

Flying Squirrel Ottawa makes it easy to get moving. With attractions that encourage jumping, climbing, swinging, and full-body fun, it’s the perfect place for kids to release energy and reset after a long school day or stressful week.

Attractions That Keep Kids Moving

Flying Squirrel Ottawa delivers full-throttle fun from the moment kids walk through the doors. Whether they’re jumping, climbing, swinging, or playing, there’s something here for every age and energy level.

• Airbag Trampoline Launch Lanes – Kids can launch into the air and land safely on a giant airbag. It’s all the thrill, none of the ouch.
• Climbing Wall – A vertical adventure for brave climbers looking to conquer new heights.
• Rope Swing – Hang on tight and swing out over a cushy foam pit—Tarzan style.
• Adventure Soft Playground – A multi-level maze of tunnels, slides, and padded obstacles perfect for younger adventurers.
• Crochet Net Playground – Unique, bouncy, and built for climbing and creativity, this colourful net structure is a favourite for imaginative play.

Whether it’s their first visit or their fiftieth, the energy, variety, and sheer fun of Flying Squirrel Ottawa keeps kids coming back.

Group Play Builds More Than Friendships—It Builds Courage

Back-to-school stress often comes with a dose of social anxiety. “Will I make new friends?” “Will anyone talk to me?” Group activities like Trampoline Dodgeball offer low-pressure opportunities to play together, build social confidence, and develop teamwork skills.

In this kind of shared play, kids practice problem-solving, boundary-setting, and communication—all without a formal lesson plan. The fun of dodgeball masks the fact that they’re developing vital social-emotional tools. And the best part? There are no grades—just giggles, friendly rivalries, and the occasional dramatic dive.

Active Routines That Support Mental Wellness

You don’t need to overhaul your life to support your child’s mental health. Consider building a simple, weekly rhythm around movement and connection.

• One afternoon a week at Flying Squirrel becomes something to look forward to, especially during the adjustment phase of early September.

• A bounce session on Fridays can mark the end of the school week—and the beginning of the weekend reset.

• Even a short visit after a tough day can make a huge difference in your child’s mood.

Anxiety doesn’t disappear overnight. But with regular movement, play, and connection, your child can develop the tools to manage stress—and even begin to look forward to what’s ahead.

At Flying Squirrel Ottawa, we’re not just here for the birthdays and big events. We’re here for the in-between moments too—the ones that build confidence, resilience, and joy. Let’s jump into the school year with our feet off the ground and our hearts a little lighter.