Relieve back-to-school stress

You may heave a sigh of relief when your kids head back to school, but they may not share your enthusiasm. "Kids can feel a mix of excitement, sadness, happiness and anxiety when it comes to school time," explains Bethany Hart, a mental health counselor in Muncie, Ind., who specializes in child development. Here are her tips for ways that parents can help ease the transition:

Set up one-on-one time, and ask your children how they feel about going back to school. Share your own back-to-school stories.
For younger ones, mark off the day school starts on a calendar so they can see exactly when it is.
At least a week before school starts, move your children's bedtime and wake-up time so they can adjust to the new schedule.
Take your child to visit his new classroom. It can be scary to be left in an unfamiliar place.
Know your child's stressors. If your family is going through changes, such as a job loss, tell her teacher and school counselor so they can provide support.
On the first day, slip a note into your child's backpack or lunch. A loving word of encouragement can ease stress or fears.
Be positive. If he or she struggled last year, that doesn't mean they necessarily will this year, too.

from www.usaweekend.com