Overcoming Anxiety

· If your child is anxious about school, send personal "love notes" in their lunch box or book bag. Reinforce their ability to cope. Children absorb their parent's anxiety, so model optimism and confidence for your child. Let him know that it is natural to be a little nervous anytime you start something new but that they will be just fine once they become familiar with their classmates, teacher, and school routine.

· Don't over-react if the first few days are a little rough. Young children in particular may experience separation anxiety or shyness initially but teachers are trained to help them adjust. If you drop them off, don't linger. Reassure them that you love them, will think of them during the day, and will be back. Remain calm and positive.

· Acknowledge anxiety over a bad experience the previous year. Children who had a difficult time academically or socially, or were teased or bullied may be more fearful or reluctant to return to school. If you have not yet done so, share your child's concern with the school and confirm that the problem has been addressed. Reassure your child that the problem will not occur again in the new school year, and that you and the school are working together to prevent further issues. Reinforce your child's ability to cope. Give them a few strategies to manage a difficult situation on their own, but encourage them to tell you or their teacher if the problem persists. Maintain open lines of communications with the school.

· Arrange play dates or get-togethers with some of your child's classmates before school starts and during the first weeks of schools to help your child reestablish positive social relationships with their peers.

· If possible, plan to volunteer in the classroom at least periodically throughout the year. Doing so helps your child understand that their school and family life are linked and that you care about their learning experience. Being in the classroom is also a good way to develop a relationship with your child's teacher and classmates, and to get firsthand exposure to their classroom environment and routine. Most teachers welcome occasional parent help, even if you cannot volunteer regularly.

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