August is traditionally celebrated by parents and groaned about by kids: it's the month with the first day of school. And whether your child is entering 4th grade or just getting started in kindergarten, the first day of school can be unnerving. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has put together some helpful tips to help your little one's (or not so little one) first day of school go more smoothly.
1. Point out the positive aspects of starting school: It will be fun. They will see old friends. They will meet new friends.
2. Remind your child that they are not the only student who is a bit uneasy about the first day of school. Teachers know that students are anxious and will be making an extra effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible.
3. Review all your child's accomplishments from last year, and talk about the kinds of interesting things that they will learn in the months ahead.
4. Buy them something (perhaps a special pencil or pen) that will remind them you are thinking of them while they are at school, or put a note in their lunch box.
5. Reassure your child that if any problems arise at school, you will help resolve them.
6. Find another child in the neighborhood with whom your youngster can walk to school or ride with on the bus.
7. After school, show your child some special attention and affection. Give them a hug and ask what happened at school Did they have fun? Did they make new friends? Do they need any additional school supplies that you can shop for together?

For those entering a new school (perhaps from a move or transition from elementary school to junior high), there are even more suggestions.
1. Talk with your child about their feelings, both their excitement and concerns, about the new school.
2. Visit the school with your child in advance of the first day. Teachers and staff are usually at school a few days before the children start. Peek into your child's classroom, and if possible, meet the teacher and principal. You might be able to address some of your child's concerns at that time.
3. Try to have your child meet a classmate before the first day so they can get acquainted and play together, and so your child will have a friendly face to look for when school begins.
4. Do not build up unrealistic expectations about how wonderful the new school will be, but convey a general sense of optimism about how things will go for your child at the new school.