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What you can do about your kids’ back-to-school jitters

Posted at 7:49 AM, Aug 26, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-26 07:49:11-04

EAST GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Kids can be excited about school or they can be dreading it. Either way, parents need to know how to ease the transition back to school.

Most public schools open after Labor Day, but there are schools with exemptions, year-round schools, and private schools that open earlier. As a parent, are you ready?

"Even if parents tell their kids it's going to be fine, that's probably not going to work, because in the kid's mind it's not fine," said Spectrum Health pediatric psychologist Adelle Cadieux.

Kids can be afraid they won't be on time for school. So plan ahead, make sure lunch is ready and your student gets out the door and to the bus on time.

Watch for changes in eating and sleeping patterns. Maybe they're irritable. "Those are all indications that something may be going on," said Cadieux.

She says preparation is key. Visit the school and your child's teacher. Find out who is in the class. Prep clothing outfits in advance. Set up a wake-up routine. All of these things can give a student a sense of being prepared for school in advance.

For really tough fears, school counselors are available to help.