It’s school time again! Students may be feeling excited and maybe a little sad that summer is over. (Parents, you may be feeling the opposite.)

Some kids feel nervous or a little scared on the first day of school because of all the new things: new teachers, new friends, and maybe even a new school. Luckily, these “new” worries only stick around for a little while.

Seeing friends you haven’t seen in a while can make the first day a good one. You also can make the day feel special by wearing an outfit you like. Maybe you got a great T-shirt on vacation, or your new sneakers put a spring in your step.

Parents can help their students battle the butterflies and first day jitters. As with any new or potentially unsettling situation – like starting school for the first time or entering a new grade or new school – it’s important to allow kids time to adjust. Remind them that everyone feels a little nervous about the first day of school and that it will all become an everyday routine in no time.

Emphasize the positive things about going back to school, such as hanging out with old friends, meeting new classmates, buying cool school supplies, and showing off the new duds.

It’s also important to talk to kids about what worries them and offer reassurance: Are they afraid they won’t make new friends or get along with their teachers? Is the thought of schoolwork stressing them out? Are they worried about the bully from last year?

Tyler County parents who have questions or concerns regarding the first day of school should refer to the school-specific information on page 8 or contact the Board of Education at 304-758-2145.

* * * *

On a related note, if you know of children in Sistersville who need school supplies, please have their parents contact the pastor of any Sistersville Ministerial church. Information will be passed to the First Baptist Church who will fill the orders accordingly.

The Tyler County CRI Service Office will be distributing backpacks Thursday, August 9 from 9 a.m. until noon. The backpacks will be distributed at the Tyler County FRN Office, 302 Main Street in Middlebourne.