By Staff
It's time for another year of school to begin. No doubt both parents and children are feeling anxious. Parents are anxiously pulling out hairs of their heads wishing that bell would have rang last week, and children are anxiously pining away for every last minute of uninterrupted cartoons knowing surely the bell is going to ring soon.
For many children, the first day of school doesn't just mean new teachers and new friends – it can also be a source of anxiety with homework and tests just around the corner. Fortunately, starting the year off right can help minimize a child's stress levels throughout the year. Parents can ease back-to-school anxiety and make a smooth transition from summer to school by starting a routine with their child early in the year. While all children experience first day jitters, parents should pay close attention to children in transition years- kindergarten, first grade, and the start of middle school and high school. The first days of transition years can be particularly difficult and come with new expectations and challenges.
The following are ideas to help children and parents prepare for school and minimize academic stress. These tips include back-to-school suggestions and specific tips for the transition years: