TULSA, Okla. — For some kids, going back to school can come with a lot of stress.
Experts said back to school jitters are common for not only students, but parents and teachers as well.
A new bedtime, new teachers, or even a new school can come with a mix of emotions for those getting back into the swing of a new school year.
"I'm very excited as always,” Katy Jimenez, principal at McClure Elementary said. “We live for the summer as the year comes to a close, then the summer is always so busy in prepping for the next school year."
As the sweet days of summer dwindle down, your child could become anxious about what’s to come with a new routine. That's why administrators recommend you start your routine before school even begins.
“They stay up later in the summer, they're used to spending more time with technology, a lot of unstructured time, and thinking of coming to school can cause anxiety because they don't know what to expect,” Jimenez said.
She suggests parents set their child's bedtime as well as a time to wake up in the morning.
Also try to make sure they have structured activities during the day. If your child still has concerns, there are other options to help them ease into the new year.
"Almost every school has a social media account,” Jimenez said. “Getting on a schools Facebook page, looking at pictures, and familiarizing their students with faces they can expect to see during the school year."
It's not just the kiddos feeling those jitters, teachers can get them as well.
"The beginning of the school year is very exciting, everyone is high energy, but about 5 or 6 weeks in we settle in and the fatigue begins to start,” Jimenez said.
She adds teachers should make sure they’re getting enough sleep, and the same goes for parents.
"Self-care is so important and trying to create really healthy routines before the year begins that you can sustain."
Lastly, as you prepare for back to school, remember, starting off on a positive note sets the tone of a new school year.
Once school begins students can still feel uneasy about their school day and it is important parents open communication with their kids.
Experts suggest asking them things like "What is it about school you don't like?" or “What would make you feel more comfortable in class?"
Remember, reaching out to your child's teacher or an administrator is always the first thing you should do if you have concerns.
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