Back to school!

The 2015-2016 school year is here! After a fabulous summer, some kiddos have a hard time returning to the structure and routine of the school. Here are a few tips to help them with the transition:

*Remind your child that some back to school jitters are normal. Just like anything new, a new school year can cause anxiety. Remind them that most other children will be feeling the same way.

*Get to know your child’s bus driver. Introduce your child to their bus driver to help ease their jitters especially if it is the first time your child will be riding a school bus.   School bus drivers will often go out of their way to check on children who may be anxious for the new school year and offer to have them sit up front.

*Your child may be nervous to form a new relationship with their new teacher. If your child was unable to meet their new teacher, maybe he/she can make a card for their teacher to start the new school year in a positive manner.

Symptoms of anxiety in children:

 *A change in sleep patterns

*Chronic Upset stomach

*Frequent Headaches

*Excess worry

*Avoids social situations

*Change in eating patterns

If your child is exhibiting any of these symptoms, please discuss them with your child’s pediatrician mental health professional.