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Are you or your child anxious about going back to school? Local clinical psychologist Dr. Stephanie O’Leary shares some advice with our readers.

For parents and children alike the summer months often pass by quickly. Just as the excitement and fanfare of graduations and moving-up ceremonies die down, it seems as if it is time to start back-to-school shopping again! For some youngsters this yearly transition occurs easily. However, other children may find it more challenging to adjust to the changes that September bring.

Here are some simple ways to help your kids as they pack their school bags and head to the bus stop this fall.

For any child entering a new school building, especially kindergarteners, take advantage of “Open House” tours or other opportunities for them to view their new facility. Younger children often enjoy approaching this as a treasure hunt, and feel more confident after successfully searching out various spaces (i.e., library, gym, cafeteria). Older children may feel a sense of security in knowing how to find their way from the bus to their classroom, or previewing the hall where their locker will be. If issues regarding separation from parents arise, some children find it helpful to carry a small picture of family members in their pocket. This discrete reminder of loved ones is inexpensive, relatively simple to replace if lost, and easily stored in a snack sized plastic bag.

For older children, a whole new set of anxieties regarding school assignments often arises. The summer reading list or required essay which may not have received their full attention now looms as the first day of class approaches. Discussing these summer assignments with your child and helping them create a plan to successfully complete all requirements will allow them to sleep more easily and put their best foot forward on the first day of school.

Regardless of your child’s specific concerns, it is important for parents to listen and appreciate the stress that may accompany September. Just imagine if we had to start a different job each fall complete with a new boss, coworkers, and office building! While most of us would probably trade our BlackBerrys for back packs on most days, simply being available to appreciate the challenges of the new school year will go a long way in helping your child succeed.

By Stephanie O’Leary, Psy.D.,