INDIANAPOLIS (WTHR) — Going back to school can be stressful for kids, parents and teachers alike. First-grade teacher Alex Navarre is entering her seventh year of teaching at Harrison Hill Elementary, but she admits she still gets nervous for that first day back.
One of her big tips for parents and students is to attend any back-to-school events to help calm the nerves.
"You have a list of names and you don't know anything about them, so it is nice to put faces to names and to meet the parents and the families and siblings who are also in the school," Navarre said. "It gives you a nice little start, so you're not as nervous then — as the teacher — on the first day of school because you recognize those faces coming into your classroom."
Navarre says a smooth transition into the first day of school is key:
- Set out clothes the night before
- Make sure backpacks are ready to go
- Eat a healthy breakfast
For younger kids, it's important to communicate with the teacher and build a good relationship at the start of the year.
It's also helpful for younger kids to do a walk-through around the school if they're new to a building. Another tip for parents of young children: "quick goodbyes, quick hugs, pictures, and then get going."
Navarre said if you don't let the goodbye linger too long, it will be easier on both parents and children.
For more tips from teachers, click here.