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Reality Check: Back-to-School Jitters

By Denene Millner, Parenting
 
 
See Also
Make sure everything gets done and you'll ease your new preschooler's first-day jitters - and your own! - Parenting.com
Why tweens experience school-related stress, and how to help - Parenting.com
All kids have to go to school eventually, and though it might seem as hard for you as for your child, it won't take long for you both to adjust. To smooth the transition:

1. Get phone numbers for a few kids who'll be in your child's class  -- a strategic playdate before or in the first week of school can help her feel less alone in the classroom.

2. Never underestimate the power of a lunchtime note with a lipstick kiss or a little drawing.

3. There are a slew of smart, funny books that'll help demystify the whole thing. Two of our faves: Mouse's First Day of School (Simon & Schuster) and First Day Jitters (Charlesbridge Publishing).



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