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The ABC's of Starting School

ARLINGTON, Va. (August 20, 2009) - In the coming weeks, many children will start school for the first time. For most, it is an exciting and positive experience, but for some the transition can be challenging.

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) offers parents the following tips to help reduce the anxiety associated with starting school.

Answer any questions your child may have about school before classes begin. Describe what school will be like and what will happen throughout the day.

Bring kids to visit the school in advance. If possible, introduce them to their teacher, and show them their classroom and other important landmarks, like the playground and lunchroom.

Coordinate play dates with classmates before the school year begins. Having friends always reduces school anxiety.

Let kids know that it is okay to feel nervous or worried when starting school. Reassure them that everyone feels a little anxious when they do things for the first time.

Help kids establish a regular routine to get ready for school. Let them participate in making choices about what to wear, what to have for breakfast, or what to bring for lunch.

Set a regular bedtime with enough time for 8-10 hours of sleep. If kids are particularly anxious, consider sending a small reminder of home, such as a photograph of the family or a picture of a favorite pet.

Spend time talking to kids about what happened in school. Chances are they’ll have many stories. Give kids plenty of positive feedback about their new experiences.

Anxiety about starting school usually passes within the first few days or weeks. However, if kids are having excessive or ongoing difficulties (e.g., problems sleeping, frequent temper tantrums, reluctance or refusal to go to school, etc.), further evaluation may be needed. Talk to your child’s teacher or family doctor. If difficulties persist, consider a referral to a mental health professional.

Free public information about mental health is available on APA's consumer Web site at HealthyMinds.org

The American Psychiatric Association is a national medical specialty society whose more than 38,000 physician members specialize in diagnosis, treatment, prevention and research of mental illnesses, including substance use disorders. Visit the APA at www.psych.org.

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