The first few weeks of term can be stressful for children – especially those who may be attending for the first time. Parents, nannies and babysitters can help make the transition from the lazy days of summer to school chaos easier with love and support.
We’ve thought of the top five school worries that lots of kids have and tips on how to make sure those concerns are addressed and everyone is well prepared and well adjusted. Share this article with your nanny too, so that you are all on the same page.
1. Will I wake up on time?

A few weeks before the school year actually begins, ease your family back into the school schedule. Start introducing earlier bedtimes and try to have breakfast at a set time.
2. How will I get to school?

If your child is going to be getting the bus to school, consider going on a bus trip together beforehand. That way they will know where the bus stop is, how to show the bus driver their pass and where to get off the bus. If they’re going to be walking or cycling to school try the journey together a couple of times whilst the weather is nice, so they’re familiar with the route. If a nanny or caregiver will be taking the children to school, practice with them as well, and show them any shortcuts that help cut out the worst of the traffic jams.
3. Will I make friends?
For a child who is just starting school, moving from one year to the next or starting a new school, it can be very stressful to think about who they’ll be friends with, who they’ll sit with on the bus and who they’ll know at playtime. 
Try to organise some play dates or fun afternoons with other children in the neighbourhood who will be in the same class as your child. Knowing a few faces before they walk in the door — even if they do not end up becoming best friends — can go a long way towards easing your child’s friendship worries.
4. Will I get bullied? 

Bullying in schools has become a hot topic for parents and for good reason: No child ever deserves to be bullied. Teach your child to recognise bullying from others (including cyber bullying!) and how to interact with others in their peer group.
5. Will the lessons be too difficult? 

One of the big changes from summer play to the school day is the increase in homework and structured activities. In most traditional school environments, your child will be expected to sit still for periods of time, be quiet, listen to others and follow the rules. If they haven’t been exposed to this regularly at home, they may have a hard time adjusting. Give your child responsibilities and things to do at home, such as daily chores like clearing plates from the table, picking up toys or dressing themselves.
Back-to-school can be exciting, but also daunting and stressful. The more you can eliminate mystery from your child’s everyday routine, the better they’ll handle the first day of school and beyond.