Getting Acquainted with Your New School

Starting at a new school can be intimidating for children and may cause intense anxiety and nervousness at summer's end. Ease the transition with these back-to-school techniques. They will help you and your child start off the new school year smoothly.

Practice the Route

Make sure the route to and from school is familiar to your child. If he is expected to walk or bike, then take a few practice runs with him and point out landmarks along the way. Make sure he is comfortable with going it alone by the time the first day of school arrives.

If he is carpooling with other students, then get in touch with the participating parents to hash out the scheduling details before school starts. Over the summer, make sure your child meets all of the students in the carpool. Even if your child does not become close with any of them, he will feel more comfortable starting out the school year surrounded by familiar faces.

If your child is taking the school bus, then find out the exact time and location of pickup and drop-off. If you have any concerns about safety, contact the school's administration office.

Don't Diminish Fears Allow your child to discuss her fears with you without interruption or excuse. You may feel guilty about moving your child to a new school district, or you may think that indulging your child's fears will only elevate them, but it is important to allow your son or daughter to express concerns. Discussing her thoughts may allow her to pinpoint exactly what is causing her anxiety – and you'll be better able to help. Sometimes simply venting alleviates nervousness. However, even if this conversation makes no difference in your child's level of apprehension and distress, you are still instilling within her the knowledge that she can come to you with any concerns.