When we encourage and help kids identify ways to cope with the first day jitters, we help them learn they have the ability to make things more manageable and that they don't have to just accept feeling jittery or anxious. Giving them support to identify coping skills can help them transfer that learning to other times they are feeling worried or upset, setting them up with a sense of encouragement and agency, that they can handle BIG feelings. 

When kids play a part in identifying what they think might work best for them, it tends to have more "sticking power" and makes it more likely that they will remember the skill when they need it most. 

What if My Child Gets Stuck?

If your child is absolutely stumped about what may help them cope with the jitters or anxious feelings, by all means encourage, support and offer them a few options. Let them decide what they think will be most helpful. Sometimes, just a gentle nudge will help them think of new ideas on their own. It's amazing to me how good kids really are at coming up with coping skills when given the chance. 

Identifying the coping skills when things are calm and your child is not in the midst of BIG feelings is key. Having a plan in place increases the chances of your child utilizing the skills when they need it most. 

Accentuate the Positive

Focusing on the good aspects of any situation can help boost our mood and help us cope. This resource also provides you with two coloring sheets that are open ended and allow kids to identify what they think are the best things about school and a place to draw themselves having their best day at school. 

No matter what kids face, they can find ways to cope!