Summer has flown by so fast that it’s hard to believe that it’s almost back to school time! If you have kids at home that are getting ready to go back to school, they may be excited about it. But it isn’t uncommon that some may be a little anxious. If your child falls into the latter category, here are some ideas you can use to help alleviate some nervousness.
Beating the Back-to-School Nerves
If your child is extremely nervous about a new school or new teacher, try to arrange a meeting with the teacher. Many teachers are working before the school year starts, redoing their classrooms and getting ready for the year. You might be able to arrange a tour of the school so your child will feel more confident about where things are located in the building.
Stay organized! Get the school supply list and get to the store early. Many stores are putting out school supplies after July 4th. Your student will feel more confident knowing they have everything they need for the upcoming year. On the same note, during the first weeks of school, make sure their backpacks are ready to go for the next day before they go to bed. This will decrease unnecessary stress and panic in the morning, which only makes the situation worse.
Establish a schedule. If your child has a late bedtime during the summer, start getting them used to the time he or she will be going to bed during the school. They will be less likely to be tired and cranky while at school when kids are getting to know each other. Likewise, make sure they eat a good breakfast before heading out the door! Eating breakfast (as I have mentioned in previous posts) has been proven many times over to improve concentration, problem solving ability, mental performance, memory and mood.
Helping Others
Sadly, there are families that have a tough time paying for all of the school supplies their child needs. If you are in this situation, check to see if there is an assistance program in your area. Here in Eau Claire, we the Back To School Program, put on by the Junior League of Eau Claire along with the Boys & Girls Club of the Greater Chippewa Valley.
The Eau Claire School District mails out registration forms at the end of each school year to the parents/guardians of eligible children for the next year. People from all over the community donate money to help purchase backpacks and supplies for those children, based on their grade level. I was a part of this effort last year and it’s great to see the smile on the faces of children, knowing that they will be that much more confident going into the school year!
If you have other tips about getting ready for school, please share them!