Back to School with Less Stress

The thoughts of a new school year bring stress on everyone, even the teachers and parents. Some experience stress because they are so excited about returning to the hussle and bussle of friends, after school activities, and the challenge of learning. Others are glad to have a routine and opportunity to socialize with their friends again. Not all students look forward to the ending of summer vacation and the beginning of a new school year. I know that is hard for some to believe, but it is true. There are students who dread every aspect of school. No matter the opinion or the type of schooling, the first day of the new school year is real to us all.


Public school, private school, home school, or virtual school all have a beginning and ending date. I have comprised a list of ways to make this new beginning a little less stressful for all.

1. Visit the School: This is important even if you know the school. Attend orientation or open house. These activities are not just for new students. It helps create a mind set that school is about to start. It is also a good way to discuss the positives about the previous school year.

2. Buy School Supplies: This can be laborous when done in a rush. Set aside time to buy the supplies with the student. The reluctant student needs something to like about school, even if it is only his bookbag.

3. Pack Light: Be careful not to overload the bookbag on the first day. Only take the essentials. The bookbag will be heavier with textbooks on the trip home. Sometimes elementary and middle schools ask for supplies that will be shared with the entire class. Drop these supplies off at the school prior to your child's first day of school or send them in gradually. This will be one less thing to worry about on the first day of school.

4. Get into a Routine: Get back into your school time eating and sleeping patterns at least one week prior to the first day of school. It takes more that one good night of sleep and one good breakfast to have a good first day back.

These are just a few tips. Enjoy your learning. It never stops.

~Becky Matthews