But remember: The amount of help a student wants differs by age. An elementary-schooler needs plenty of help, while a middle-schooler expects a bit more freedom. An older student might not want mom and dad to make any fuss – but parents should find ways to stay involved because high school presents more choices.

Here’s how you can prepare your child:

• Two weeks before the school year begins, start getting your child back in the habit of going to bed, rising and eating meals at set times. All youngsters need time to adjust to school schedules after summer activities.
• Make a special trip to the store to buy school supplies. Make a side trip to a clothing store and buy your child a new outfit for the first day.
• Plan a special back-to-school dinner with your child’s help. Rise early and prepare a favorite breakfast on the first day of school.
• Drive by the school and point it out to your child.
• On another day, take the child to the school and walk around. Play on the playground and look in classrooms and the lunchroom.
• If the child will walk to school, walk the route together at least one morning or afternoon. Walk to the bus stop if the youngster will ride the bus.
• Go to the school’s open house so the youngster can meet the teacher and other students in a relaxed setting. Familiar faces are reassuring on the first day.