Back-to-school season can be exciting, but it can also bring anxiety for students and families as they prepare for the first day of school on Aug. 10, 11 and 13.
The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay wants parents to know those feelings are normal.
"We need to normalize that it's normal to be anxious about going back to school," said Clara Reynolds, president and CEO of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. "We want to encourage families to talk with their children about those back-to-school jitters and make a plan."
Reynolds recommends families begin preparing this week by:
Establishing a bedtime routine.
Practicing school-day wake-up times.
Reducing screen time before school begins.
"Getting back into a routine can be significantly stressful," Reynolds said. "If you work on this now, it will make for an easier transition instead of waiting for school to start."
Students can also ease anxiety by attending back-to-school events, meeting their teachers and becoming familiar with their campus before the first day.
"Getting ahead of where classrooms are located and having that early introduction can help reduce the fear of the unknown," Reynolds said.
Parents should also check their school's website to ensure their children are up to date on immunizations and any athletic paperwork required before participating in school sports.
"Reach out to the coach to find out exactly what is needed and the timeline," Reynolds said.
Many community events, including health fairs, offer sports physicals and heart screenings for student-athletes. Parents can also schedule appointments with their child's physician if they cannot attend a free event.
The financial costs associated with a new school year can also create stress for families. Throughout Tampa Bay, many organizations are hosting free back-to-school backpack and school supply events this week on Eventbrite.
Reynolds also encouraged families to explore meal assistance programs available through their school district.
"Elementary school lunches in Hillsborough County are $2.25, while middle and high school lunches are $2.75," Reynolds said. "There are many free and reduced-price lunch programs, so reach out to your school to see if you qualify."
Hillsborough County Public Schools also provides free breakfast to all students.
Families who homeschool or attend charter schools can also find community organizations that offer assistance with school supplies, food and other resources, Reynolds said.
Families may qualify for free or reduced-price meals in Hillsborough County if:
Children in the household receive SNAP or TANF benefits.
The child is in foster care.
Household income falls at or below the federal income eligibility guidelines.
In Pinellas County, qualifying families may receive:
Free or reduced-price school meals.
Discounts on after-school care, summer camps and clothing.
Reduced fees associated with college applications.
Discounted SAT, ACT and AP exam registration fees.
Citrus County Public Schools announced that all students will receive free breakfast and lunch throughout the school year with no application required.
Parents should also pay attention to changes in their children's behavior as the school year begins.
"Be aware of your child's body language, sleep and eating habits," Reynolds said. "If they are talking about being nervous, validate those feelings so they know they can come and talk to you."
Students who need additional support can also reach out to a trusted teacher, school counselor, coach, mentor, faith leader or the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.
Every school has counselors available to assist students and families throughout the school year.
"As the school year starts, the first couple of weeks are hectic," Reynolds said. "If you're finding a continued struggle with anxiety or depression about six weeks later, it's time to reach out to your doctor, your child's doctor or the crisis center. Don't let something small become something bigger."
As students return to the classroom, Reynolds said families should remember that support and resources are available throughout Tampa Bay to help make the transition back to school a little easier.