Ask the Doctor: Back to school stress

(WWLP) - 1.) I know it’s true, but it seems too soon to talk about the start of school again.

Response: I agree, but in some local school systems it's only 12 days away, and I'm sure many parents, and grandparents, have been counting the days for some time. I want to encourage parents to bring up the topic, if the kids haven’t already, so both the parents and their children have time to talk about it before it happens. often the children tune in to their parent’s worries. Sending your child to school may be the first time your child gets closely observed by anyone else when you aren’t there. The family’s first child in school and the youngest child seem to carry the most parental anxiety.

2.) How can a parent help with a child's jitters?

Response: First by acknowledging their own concerns to themselves, and doing what they can to help that, without sharing their concerns with their children. It's OK for a child to share anxiety with a parent, and this should be accepted and the child reassured. Parents should share positive feelings about school, happy school experiences, even if they have some perfectly reasonable misgivings.

3. How about a couple specific hints?
Response: [Graphic#1]

1. Don't make the first day a really big deal- going to school
is normal. Quiet cheers, but no trumpets. Practice morning
routines- wake up times, laying out clothes, a few days ahead.
2. Play school games at home and read books about going to
school. Talk about your going to school at dinner.
3. Pay at least one visit to the school, even just outside on the
playground with your child before school starts. Walk there if your child will be walking or decide where you might pick her up if that is
your plan.
4. Make goodbyes at school short but visible. Don't just quietly leave
when your child isn’t looking.

4.) How about suggestions for kids who are returning to school?

Response: Actually, all the things I mentioned still apply for the new first or second grader. Remind them of the friends from last year they may not have seen during the summer- even make a special effort to get them together before school starts. Start daily routines up again. And be proud of their independence!