ROLL BACK THE SCHEDULE

Start adjusting bedtime schedules to avoid an abrupt switch before school starts.

INVOLVE YOUR CHILDREN

Let your children assist in scheduling play dates, chore/homework schedules and shopping sprees for school supplies and outfits.

LOOK FOR SIGNS OF THE BLUES

When children realize that summer vacation is over, they often feel sad and have behavioral issues such as sleeplessness, agitation or temper tantrums. Observe what your children are doing and saying and then talk with them to help ease their anxiety.

BE A GOOD LISTENER

Listen to your children share their feelings about summer ending or feelings of anxiety about the upcoming school year. That way, they are more apt to be less anxious when school begins.

PREPARE FOR PROBLEMS

Troubleshoot potential problems for your child. If your child is starting a new school, visit the school ahead of time or during open house sessions so that your child can get acclimated to the new school.

GIVE EXTRA CUDDLE TIME

Spending time together doing activities such as reading or playing games helps build more confidence when children return to school.

TEACH RELAXATION SKILLS

Encourage your child to think about positive events instead of negative events or circumstances.

SET GOALS

Review the progress your child has made from the previous school year and then set goals for the upcoming year to give your child something to work toward.

DESIGNATE AN OFFICIAL END-OF-SUMMER DATE

Celebrate the end of summer with a family barbecue, picnic, campfire or game night to create closure.

MARK THE CALENDAR

Get the calendar out before school starts and begin planning activities to do as a family once school begins. Plan a trip for fall break or a fun-filled day of activities in September or October so that children will have something planned for the upcoming months.

Source: Gainesville City Schools