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Cooling Kindergarten Worries

Easing Your Child's Stress on the First Day

Although highly anticipated, the first day of kindergarten also can be a nerve-wracking occasion for both parents and kids. Doctors at Texas Children's Hospital say a little planning can go a long way toward calming the jitters and bolstering confidence for youngsters in a new academic setting.

Preparation for the big event should begin several weeks before school starts, advises Dr. Jan Drutz, chief of the residents' primary care group clinic at Texas Children's Hospital and professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. "It's a smart idea for your child to have a clinical exam by a pediatrician to be certain there are no physical problems that could interfere with the ability to perform in class," he says. "This exam is also a good time to make sure immunizations are current."

To gently adjust to the upcoming routine, Drutz recommends setting a firm bedtime about two weeks before classes start. "A child should go to bed by 9 or 9:30 p.m.," he says. "Kids need between eight and a half and nine hours of sleep every night in order to be fully rested, better organized, interested in learning and alert enough to function."

Because it's normal for youngsters to be apprehensive about entering a different environment, there are measures parents can take to make the transition smoother. "Before the first day of school, decide how your child will be transported to and from campus – whether by bus, carpool or walking," says Dr. Drutz. "Check on schedules. If possible, take your child to campus during the summer before classes start. Walk around the halls together and become familiar with the layout. If time permits, visit more than once."

In addition to the necessary school supplies, the student should have a wardrobe in keeping with the school's dress code. "Clothing is very important for a child's self-esteem," says Dr. Drutz. "Depending on the school or the district, uniforms may be required. On the bright side, uniforms eliminate the stress of what to wear each morning and are a good option for families on tight budgets."

Want to see more?

• School Time? Determining if Your Child Is Ready for Kindergarten
• Preparing for Kindergarten Worksheets
• Academic Planning: Jump Starting the School Year
• Talk about it!