How can I help alleviate new school year worries for my children? - Make it Easier
Answer: The first day of school is always an anxious time for children, whether they are entering kindergarten or college. The reasons children are anxious vary with their grade level. Those entering kindergarten worry about leaving a familiar environment, whether it is their home, preschool or a caregiver. Elementary students wonder every year if they will have friends in their classes, like their teachers and be able to do the work. Students moving from elementary to middle school and middle school to high school worry about making the grade at a new school, where they will have several teachers each day, a harder curriculum and a great number of students they do not know. Students entering college are particularly worried about making the grade academically. At all levels, parents can help their children feel more confident on the first day of school. Here's what they can do:
Kindergarten
1. Make sure your child knows as much as possible about the school.
2. Attend all orientation sessions with your children.
3. Make after-school plans clear to your children.
4. Show enthusiasm for the school experience.
First Grade
1. Send your children with the exact supplies on the school-supply list.
2. Make transportation plans clear to your children.
3. Make sure your children know what is involved in getting lunch, from handling trays to paying for meals.
4. Select clothing for your children that is comfortable and similar to what others will be wearing.
Elementary, Middle School, High School
1. Be sure they have the right supplies on the first day of school.
2. Encourage your children to go to school with a friend.
3. Slip into the school routine (regular mealtime and bedtime) a few days before school starts.
4. Read with your children all materials that the school has sent to your home.
College
1. Make sure your children know how much spending money will be available to them.
2. Set up bank or credit-card accounts.
3. Encourage them to contact their roommates before the start of school.
4. Advise them to attend all orientation sessions.