Ease the Anxiety of Back to School

When a child has extra needs, as my oldest does, it creates challenges when preparing to go back to school. I was pleasantly surprised when I realized that the techniques I have learned to keep the transition as smooth as possible actually help me with my younger two! My youngest just started daycare, and we did it without any issues. I call that a parenting win!

School is starting soon, and you probably know all the basics: supplies, new clothes and, if you can bribe, I mean, convince them, a haircut. But what else can you do to make sure that your child has an easy entry into school? Here are six tips -- tried, tested and true -- that will ease everyone's anxiety: extra needs or not!

1. Discuss what to expect. This is especially important if it's the first time going to school! Even for older kids, starting a new grade with new teachers and friends can cause a lot of nervousness. Allow your child to express what they're afraid of, and make sure to follow-up with validating statements such as, "I know that must feel so scary. When I was a kid, I felt that way, too." If they don't open up, try asking, "How are you feeling about going to school?" but avoid leading questions like, "Are you nervous about going to school?"

2. Do a dry run (with role playing). Acting out what's going to happen on the first day is my favorite tip. It's fun for everyone, and it helps eliminate some of the uneasiness about the unknown. ....

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To finish reading the rest of the tips, visit the Huffington Post: Parents website: http://huff.to/1LTtzvi.

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