| Children all over the metro area are starting school. Some are bright and eager to begin and some children are nervous and scared to begin a new school. How can parents help children fight the "new school jitters"?
It’s important to acknowledge the fact that your child is nervous. Talk about his fears, then work together to reduce those fears. Help him gain control over them. A good idea is to visit the school before the first day, talk with the teacher, principal and counselor.
What about those first few days?
Organize carefully:
- Make a list of things to do
- Lay clothes out and pack a lunch the night before
- Put him to sleep with good thoughts
- Try to keep non-school activities low-key, so that your home environment is calm. Remember to be a good role model and stay positive.
What about the older child – the teenager who doesn’t "fit in" right?
Help her find clothes and a hairstyle she likes. Show her how to start a conversation with a new classmate. Encourage her to make at least one friend the first week. Offer to drive them to a movie or to the mall during the first week. Encourage her to check out school sports, clubs and other activities.
For more information call 553-3000 or toll-free (877) 553-3001 or email info@heartlandfamilyservice.org
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