HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – Many children in the Tampa Bay Area are preparing for the first day of school. It’s an exciting time, but we know that with the excitement can come some nervousness.
We met with Dr. Christina Canody, medical director of pediatrics at Baycare.
“I think it’s a combination of fear and excitement, but also a little nervousness about what might happen,” Dr. Canody said.
She said it is completely normal for children to have such feelings as they prepare to return to school.
Dr. Canody suggests four main steps parents can take to calm their nerves.
“The first thing is to get back to everyday life,” she said.
This means going to bed earlier, spending less time on social media, and eating at normal meal times.
“The second step is actually preparation,” said Dr. Canody.
She explained that the idea was to check off the supplies list so that the children knew they had everything they needed on hand on the first day.
Next, Dr Canody said, children should be asked how they are feeling about the year ahead and talk about their feelings. She said this would help create a safe space for them to talk about their feelings.
“The final step is to actually offer support and know that whether you’re excited or sad, we’re here for you. We share this journey,” Dr. Canody said.
Click here for more resources to help children mentally prepare for returning to school.
Storm surge from Tropical Storm Debby washed away nearly 100 sea turtle nests on Anna Maria Island. ABC Action News reporter Jessica De Leon spoke with the Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch team that is examining the nests to determine if they are still viable.
Tropical Storm Debby washed away nearly 100 sea turtle nests on Anna Maria Island
