My family is preparing to enter the public school system this week. Are the nerves, worries and back-to-school fears starting to kick in? Oh, are they ever!

Four Steps for Keeping Back-to-School Fears in Check

As the mama of a kiddo with food allergies, the nerves are pretty much busting out of me. Safety is in the forefront of my mind. Planning ahead regarding the logistics of what will actually take place is paramount.

I know there are other parents out there feeling it too. I also know we all need to be proactive while trying to keep our fears in check.

Here are four ways I'm keeping my back-to-school (or should I say just-starting-school) anxieties as checked as I can:

Prepare and plan ahead. I started planning with the school's RN months and months ago. I continue to educate myself about what the school and I need to do. I've met with everyone at the school. I've printed off information about my son's food allergies to help answer any questions. I've made myself available.
Join up with a group of people who understand. It's not only educational but is great for support. We all need help. It really does take a village. It's hard for people not going through the same things to truly get it. It's such a comfort to meet with those who are in the same boat.
Do a stress-relieving activity together! Back in July, the kids and I made up a stress-relieving activity in honor of Freedible.com's “Declare Your Independence From Food Restrictions” campaign. The kids and I declared our independence from our food allergy fears by writing them down, crumpling them up and stomping on them. I think we need to do this again. It really did feel good and was a great way for us to address what can be very big back-to-school emotions. It really did relieve my stress, even if it was for a short time. Too, it was fun!
Meet up with friends in person. Finally, I met up with my best friend for girl talk over lunch, just the two of us. It's a rarity and was so wonderful. It's good to get away, get perspective and also connect with and get support from those who love us, especially face-to-face.

So here's a safe and happy back-to-school time for everyone. May we are as prepared as we can be, but not overcome by our fears–from our lips to God's ears!

How are you easing your back-to-school stresses? We'd love to hear from you!