It’s school time again! You’re probably feeling excited and maybe a little sad that summer is almost over.

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.

Here are seven tips to keep in mind to help keep things running smoothly.

1. Get a Grip. Your relationship with your children has a great effect on them. It’s important not to act overwhelmed about the return to school. Build in extra time, put extra projects on hold, stay rested, and try to spend more time with your kids.
2. Don’t Completely Clean the Slate. While change is good, be careful about overdoing it. Too much too soon can make any child complain. Focus on getting comfortable with a school schedule and revisit other issues after you and your kids feel more settled.
3. Be Reassuring. Be sure to listen to your child’s worries and don’t minimize or dismiss them. These fears are real to your child.
4. Set the Stage. Shopping for supplies and clothes should be fun, but overdoing this can be boring and a little scary to kids. Be sure to take it slow. You should also try and set aside a space for homework, so your child can have a place that is quiet and comfortable for them.
5. Meet the Teacher. When parents and teachers have regular discussions about school or home events, kids feel a more trusting connection with the school as a whole and tend to try harder both socially and academically. Most good schools would rather know sooner than later if you are worried about your child’s school experience.
6. Set Homework Ground Rules. Be sure to set some ground rules for homework. Set aside a certain time each day for your child to do their homework. Depending on your child’s schedule, you may have to set homework time before or after you eat in the evening. Just be sure to remember that regularity is key.
7. Watch for Signs of Frustration. No learning can take place if your child is angry or upset. Pay attention to your child and step in if it looks like they’re getting frustrated over homework or school.

In the end, the most important tool you can use is to know your own child. Observe the situation, but also try to keep it all in perspective.

For most kids, back-to-school jitters will melt away as easily as summer slips into fall.