The National Children's Book and Literacy Alliance

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Back To School: School Stress

Does the thought of going back to school send your children into a state of panic?  School for some kids or the thought of "getting back into the groove" can be quite scary.  Not only are they entering a new grade, they will have new teachers, new classmates and possibly even a new school building.  You can ease your child's back to school anxiety by proactively addressing some of their concerns and starting a routine before the bell rings.

Use the two weeks prior to school starting to let your child readjust to their new bedtime. Set their alarm each night and make sure your little one is up and at em' the next morning.

If your child is attending school in a new location, relieve some first day anxiety by visiting the building beforehand.  Show your child the cafeteria, the restrooms as well as their new class location.  Ask your child if there is anything else they would like to locate before you leave.

Take time to go over your child's car pool or bus schedule as well. This way they will be aware of what time they need to be ready when the big day arrives.  In addition, you may want to go over routes and how long the ride to school will take.  Most importantly, talk to your child about car/bus safety!

The night before school have your child pick out a first day outfit. This will avoid adding unnecessary chaos to an already hectic event. Have them pack their backpack as well. Click here for tips on backpack safety –  http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/positive/learning/backpack.html