Returning to school after summer break or starting school for the first time can be very stressful for children. Renaye Thornborrow, author of Adventures in Wisdom™, a breakthrough life-coaching program for empowering kids, recommends three steps that parents can take to help smooth the transition if their children are uneasy about the upcoming school year.

Step 1: Discuss and Manage Concerns 

Give kids the opportunity to voice their fears about going back to school.  Once they’ve shared their concerns, work with them to brainstorm solutions. For example, if a child is worried about how they will perform in math class, create a plan to review concepts before school starts or hire a tutor if extra help is needed. If a child is nervous about making friends at a new school, invite some kids over for a play-date who already attend the new school. Knowing that their concerns can be alleviated will empower kids to face change with more confidence.

Step 2: Visualize the Positive Aspects of the Change

Have kids visualize positive aspects of going back to school such as seeing old friends, learning new subjects, and taking special field trips. Just like kids can use visualization to practice hitting a baseball, they can also use visualization to practice creating happiness and success in the classroom.

Step 3: Celebrate and Honor the Change

Parents can schedule a fun event to mark the change. Honoring the change with a celebration will mentally prepare kids for the transition.  Hosting a “back to school party” with friends, shopping for a special backpack, or going out for a meaningful family dinner can prepare kids to embrace the new school year.

For more tips on empowering kids, parents and mentors can visit http://adventuresinwisdom.com/sign-up-weekly-wisdom/# and sign up to receive weekly wisdom.