How to Get Kids Back To School

As we get closer to the beginning of school, you may hear that yearly phrase come from your child, "I don't want to go!"

Here are some simple tips that will get them excited about the first day back!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• patience
• no emotions!

1. 
    
   fear of school

   TALK WITH THEM NOT AT THEM. Frustration may kick in if your child throws a tantrum when the idea of starting school pops up. Talk openly. Explore their fears calmly without getting emotional. Remember that their feelings are real to them!

2. 
    
   friends at school

   FOCUS ON THE POSITIVES. Help your child see what will be fun, new and exciting. Think about it from their perspective. If they are social, talk about their old friends as well as new ones. If they like sports or music, you can bring up those subjects as well. Remember to be creative!

3. 
    
   classroom pet

   CREATE AN ADVENTURE! For younger students, give them an assignment to see how many new students are in their class. Or challenge them to find out what is their classroom pets favorite food!

4. 
    
   reward for adventure

   SET UP A TEMPORARY REWARD. You don't want to bribe your child but you can use step #3 as a platform. Tell your child that you'll go for ice cream after the first day and talk through their adventure.

Tips & Warnings

• Above all, be patient! You have nervous times as well.
• They are looking to you for guidance. Don't freak out or they will as well!