Some back-to-school tips

By Dr Carleene Grant-Davis

It is finally here! Most of us parents wished that September came about two weeks after the end of June! We couldn't imagine how we were going to survive having the children at home for two months. But survive we did, and with the start of September, we are ready for back to school. But are they?

While some youngsters will naturally greet the start of school with enthusiasm, others, especially those just starting school or going to a new school, might feel anxious. Schooltime brings new experiences and many personal challenges. For some children, merely the spectre of being at school, away from home, apart from their parents, and making new friends can be quite stressful.

Getting started

Try to make the first couple of days or weeks at school as easy as possible for them. Remind your child that there are probably a lot of students who are uneasy about the first days of school. Let them know that teachers are aware that students are anxious and they will make an extra effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible.

Point out the positive aspects of starting school: It will be fun! They will see old friends and meet new ones. How exciting it is going to be to start learning new stuff!

If you feel it is appropriate, accompany your child to school and pick him/her up until he/she feel more comfortable. If your child has to go unaccompanied, find another child in the neighbourhood with whom your child can walk to school or ride on the bus.

School safety

Most children prefer to carry a backpack. Choose one with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back. Organise the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the centre of the back. The backpack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 per cent of your child's body weight.

Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles. If your school allows, consider a rolling backpack. This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load.

If your child has to walk to school, walk the route before school starts to make sure it is safe. If your child is young, walk along for at least the first week or until you are sure he/she knows the route and can do it safely.

Be realistic about your child's pedestrian skills. Because small children are impulsive and less cautious around traffic, carefully consider whether or not your child is ready to walk to school without adult supervision.

So, let's prepare them mentally, ensure their safety, and get them back to school. Hopefully, they will share our enthusiasm. Have a happy school year!

Dr Carleene Grant-Davis is a consultant paediatrician and head, Department of Paediatrics, Cornwall Regional Hospital. Email yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.