by: Patricia Twitchell

Do you have a child or grandchild getting ready to start the school year? If yes, you are in a position to make the experience a great one.

The first few days of school can be exciting and yet, overwhelming for many young students. It is a time of change for parents, grandparents and children.

How you handle yourself can directly impact the child's experience. The younger the child the more important it is for the parent (or legal guardian) to do whatever they can to make it a positive experience.

Starting school can be challenging for many, yet, with some simple steps the experience can be one that will be remembered as fun and enjoyable. Often, we forget how it was for us when we started out on the big adventure. In doing so, we may not realize what the child is going through.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to make the experience a positive one.

1. Make this an exciting experience for your child. Everything leading up to the first day will determine how your child will view the experience. What you do when you shop for clothes, for school supplies and the conversations at the dinner table can lay the foundation for a great experience. If you are positive about what they will encounter, chances are your child will be.

2. Take the time to meet teachers. Also take time to visit the school with your child in order to alleviate any anxiety they may have.

3. Avoid minimizing your child's concerns. Take the time to listen to what they have to say rather than saying something like, "You shouldn't feel that way." Whatever they are feeling is real. By listening and acknowledging their concerns you can help them alleviate their concerns.

4. Realize you may go through some separation anxiety. If you and your child are extremely close, the first day of school can be just as trying for you as for them.

5. Make sure they have all your contact information in the case of an emergency. Set ground rules for when it is appropriate to call you.

6. Have time set aside in the evening where you can check in with your child to hear about their experiences. Be genuinely interested in what they are learning and discovering.

7. Always remember to take time to connect with your child before they head out for school. Take a few extra minutes to make sure they know you love them.

By taking a few simple steps towards making the experience a positive one you are laying the foundation for your child to do well.