Preparation to ease the stress of that first day.

Summer is winding down, and that "back to school" feeling is in the air for parents and children. Both can experience anxiety when facing that first day, new classmates, teacher or school. With a little preparation, parents can help to ease the stress of facing new situations.

Check out ParentGuide's Back to School Checklist!

Talk it out - talking through the steps of the first day will prepare a child mentally so they will know what to expect. Have them recite back to you how their day will go right from the time they wake up, preparations, attendance and back home again.

Practice routine - be consistent with bedtime routine at a reasonable hour, and practice waking up at the same time they will need to for school.

Immunization & checkup records - Many schools require that children have an annual physical and proof of current immunizations before allowing them to join classes. Schedule appointments well before the first day, or call ahead to have immunization records ready for pickup.

Review Safety Rules - Whether riding the bus, walking, or biking to school, there are important safety rules your kids should keep in mind as they head out the door.

• Exercise caution when boarding and exiting buses - stay well back from the curb until the bus is stopped and also when the bus is pulling away.
• Teach children traffic signals and stress the importance of obeying them while riding a bike or walking.
• And whether riding the bus, biking, or walking to school, kids should never talk to or accept rides from strangers.

Talk to your kids about bullies - let them know that it's ok to just walk away from a bully, or tell him or her to stop. If a persistent problem occurs, they should tell their teacher and parents.

Preparations for the first day

• Usually schools provide parents with a list of necessary school supplies in advance. Have the children help pick out supplies so they feel a part of the process.
• Lunch - make sure you stock up on lunch items to send with them, or provide money for the cafeteria.
• Emergency contacts - make sure the school has your current home or cell number in case of emergency. Also provide alternate contacts in case you cannot be reached.
• Breakfast - starting the day with a healthy breakfast will help power them for a day of learning.
• Visit the school in advance to find the location of their classroom and arrange to meet the teacher.

After school plan - with many parents working, after school programs or babysitters are part of a regular school day for many children. Make sure they have emergency contact information for you and can rely on a specific time that you will pick them up.

The new school year can be an exciting and stressful time for both children and parents, but early preparation will benefit everyone. Most importantly, children can enter any new situation and thrive if they're confident in the support of a loving family.

Excert from www.womenshealth.about.com