4 back-to-school mistakes parents should avoid

Going back to school is a big deal for everyone, parents included. To help make the first day of school a breeze and set a positive tone for the rest of the year, here are four common mistakes you'll want to avoid.

A child must be ready on their first day of school. However, it's not only the child's responsibility to make the necessary preparations for ensuring the school year gets off to a smooth start.

• When teachers send home lists of required school supplies, ensure they get everything on the list.
• To avoid having your child show up without the requested materials, get them to go shopping with you so they are involved in the process.

One mistake that parents often make is lingering around before their child walks into the school.

• Yes, this is okay in the beginning when the child may still be nervous, but it shouldn't be a permanent habit.
• It's especially important not to appear nervous or anxious when saying goodbye. Children can easily pick up on these emotions and it's likely to stress them out as well.

Parents love watching their children become comfortable at school, and some will even sneak off when they see their child socializing with others or enjoying themselves with certain activities.

• The problem with this is that it can be a scary experience for a child, i.e., to be suddenly "abandoned".
• Quietly approach your little one and let them know that you'll be heading off.
• This will avoid frightening your child when they look up for you and see that you're "missing".

Being a helicopter parent and "hovering" over your child has disadvantages in its own right, but doing it at the beginning of the school year can be especially damaging.

• It's important not to hang around too much while children are talking. As well, try to avoid walking around and introducing your little one to other children, since they are supposed to be learning a level of social independence.

Granted, some children are naturally shy and will need more help than others, so you may still have to step in from time to time – just don't over do it.

Back-to-school time is simultaneously one of the most exciting and most stressful times in both a parent's and child's life. But with a bit of forethought, you can reduce the stress to help ensure the first few days back at school go flawlessly.