August 17, 2004 - Along with the new school back-pack might come
some extra baggage -- stress.

The back-to-school season brings feelings of relief and anxiety for
both parent and child. Whether worrying about a new teacher or
homework, many kids don't look forward to going back. Psychologists
and authors of "Straight Talk about Psychological Testing for Kids,"
Ellen B. Braaten, PhD, and Gretchen Felopulos, PhD, share tips on
minimizing fears and when to be concerned.
"Anxiety is typified by frequent excessive worrying or nervousness and
is actually fairly common in children," says Felopulos. "Anxiety might
manifest itself in symptoms of separation anxiety, panic disorder,
obsessive-compulsive behavior, or even school phobia. Kids might
seem more angry, tense, tearful, irritable or clingy than usual.
Whether they're starting kindergarten or 12th grade, parents, even
anxious ones, can calm worries and ease the transition."

*  Talk it Through
Address their worries and explain that feeling anxious is quite
normal.  Tell them how you survived new schools or new teachers.

*  Develop a Plan
Come up with a plan together to help them 'get through' the first few
days or weeks.  Perhaps you'll drop them off a little earlier to spend
some extra time settling them in.  Alternatively, after their first week
have a special "you did it!" evening with pizza and a movie. Whatever
you and your child decide, give them something to look forward to
after starting school.

*  Keep in Touch
Kind words or hugs of reassurance can make the child feel secure.
Make yourself available and keep communicating.  After the first few
weeks have passed talk to the teachers and ask how your child is
doing.

*  When to be Concerned
If problems are increasing and the child's behavior is worsening talk
to the teachers about next steps.  Nearly one in five children are
tested during the school year to rule out learning disorders or
educational problems.

"Straight Talk about Psychological Testing for Kids" details when, why,
and how to have a child tested; what the numbers say about IQ,
development, learning disabilities; and, how to use the results to get
help. The book is published by Guilford Press in both hardback and
paperback editions.