How Parents Can Make Sure Their Children Are Ready for the First Day Back to School

The first day back to school can be frustrating and sometimes scary for children. The more planning parents do for the first day back will make the day better for your kids.

Make sure you and your kids know where the pick up and drop off points are for the school bus if they are taking it. Taking the school bus can be scary the first time and if your child misses their bus or forgets where they are supposed to be dropped off, they might be stressed even more. Making sure they know what bus to get on is the first step to making sure everything goes smoothly.

Finding another child in the neighborhood who is riding the same bus and introducing them to each other is another way to make things easier. Make sure your children know what appropriate behavior when on the bus is.

If your child is going to be walking to and from school, make sure to go over the route to and from school. You may want to walk the way to and from home with them the first few days until the feel secure walking by themselves or with their friends. If they are very young it is best to walk your children to and from school until you know they understand when to enter the crosswalks and to never cross in the middle of the street.

If your child is riding their bike to school they should always wear their helmets. Making sure your child understands the importance of this can save their lives in case of an accident.

One of the most important things to do is to eat a nutritious breakfast before school. Making sure your child gets the right start with breakfast will help them end the day happier and healthier.

Be organized for the first day of school. Help your child get their backpacks organized. They should make sure to bring the essentials the first day.

- A sturdy back pack with wide straps.

- Paper

- Pens

- Pencils

- Three Ring Binder

- Erasers

- Family notification numbers, such as home telephone number and address. The telephone number and address of another family member or family friend in case of an emergency. Some teachers require specific things for their class, be prepared to get these things for your child the first week back to school.

Make sure your child's health records are up to date. Be sure to have all required vaccinations before school starts. Visiting your child's school before school starts and asking what is required for the first day is a good idea. While at the school be sure to ask about dress code guidelines. Some school districts have strict dress code rules. Before you buy school clothes you should find out if they require a school uniform.

For very young children the first day of school may be rough. Try not to get upset if your child shows signs of shyness, separation anxiety, or are fearful to be at school alone without you. The calmer you are the calmer your child will be.

Talking about your child's fears with the teacher may help. Grade school teachers are trained to get children through the fears of the first day of school. You can also volunteer in your child's classroom during the first few days once you clear it with the teacher and the principal.

If your child has problems with fear that seem extreme or seem to last for long periods of time, you can make an appointment with the school nurse, your child's teacher and the school counselor. They can help you to make the school day a more pleasant one for your child.

Most children are extremely resilient and with your support as well as the schools your child should have a happy school experience.