Going back to school is an exciting time for students and teachers. It is important that students return to school feeling prepared and ready for the new year with all the necessary items they will need to be successful and productive. Here are a few items, and even a bit of advice, for starting a fresh new school year.

It is important that students come on the very first day of school with the "essentials". These include:

• Pencils, pens, crayons, notebooks, binders
• Backpack
• Schedule of classes (for the middle school/high school students)
• Planners/organizers

Also, some teachers even put together a list of items they want their students to bring to class. Check with your student's teacher/s before hand and check what necessary items they want your child to be prepared with for the first day of school.

The new school year may bring feelings of excitement and anticipation, but often children feel nervous and anxious about starting a new school year. That is why it is important for parents to get their children accustomed to the new school (visit the classroom and school grounds a few days before school starts if it is a brand new school to your child) and if possible, get acquainted with the teacher's and principal so your child will know exactly what to expect on the first day of school.

This can help to calm those first day of school jitters. For the middle school and high school students, it is a good idea to get classes and schedules fixed and changed (if necessary) before school starts instead of after. This will save so much time and ensures that your student is content with the classes he/she is enrolled in.

It is vital that your child is in routine before school starts, not after. So, starting a few weeks before school starts, in the summer, start enforcing a curfew and a decent hour at which the child goes to bed. This will help their transition be much more smooth for the both of you. A consistent routine is essential for students to perform at their best.

Once school has started, it is a good idea for parents to be as involved as they can in their students educational activities and pursuits. This lets your student and their teachers know that you are invested in your child's education and that you are willing to do whatever it takes for them to succeed. If you are able to volunteer in the classroom, take the opportunity to do so. This allows you to see what your child is learning and helps the teacher tremendously to have the extra help around the classroom.