BEAT BACK-TO-SCHOOL NERVES

After a summer of sleeping in, that first day of school may not be your idea of a good time. Whether you're an anxious new freshman or a confident returning senior, heading back to school is always a time of big changes: new classes, new teachers, new schedules, and most important, a new social scene. Here are some tips from Myjellybean.com to make the first-day-back a little easier.

First Day Jitters: They're Normal!

There's no escaping the fact that the first day of school can be crazy! New kids wander around in circles. Lockers won't open. The school nurse needs your medical records. You forgot your gym shorts. Freshmen are running in all directions, looking for their homerooms.

New School? Do Some Detective Work!

If you're headed to a new school, try to arrange a visit the week before classes begin. Explore any areas that are of particular interest, such as the gymnasium, library, or science labs. Some schools offer maps - get one and give it a read before school starts.

Bring the Right Basics.

Your first day is also the time to bring in school supplies and paperwork. Don't forget those forms mailed to your family over the summer: immunization (shot) records, permission slips, and class schedules. Did your school send a list of supplies? If so, bring them all with you the first day. If not, it's still a good idea to pack the basics: notebooks, pencils, pens, and a calculator. Don't forget some cash for book deposits or after-school activities.

Wear Something That Feels Good.

Did you try on eight different outfits before deciding what to wear? No matter what others might say, everyone checks out what everyone else is wearing the first day of school, but do you need all new clothes? Nah. Be smart. Be comfortable. Know the trends, but choose what looks nice AND makes you feel good. If you simply must wear a new pair of shoes, break them in a few days before or your tootsies may scream for relief long before final period.

Be Ready to Learn.

Each school has a different opening-day drill. Some start with homeroom or an assembly, but others may jump right into the first-period class. Each teacher will introduce himself or herself and then probably discuss the course syllabus, class rules, what the semester will be like, what supplies you'll need, and expectations of your performance and behavior. Some teachers may jump right into their first lesson, so be prepared to do some work.

Know You're Not the Only One Feeling Nervous.

Here's a simple equation: new place = new emotions. Lots of people feel anxious, scared, or excited about school. Although seniors may be happy about their final year and can't wait to visit with friends, most freshmen and other new kids are likely to be tense or worried.

The truth is, it's perfectly normal to have nervous feelings on the first day of school. Accept it. School just takes some getting used to. Take a deep breath, laugh at everything, and you'll survive. If you're having a mental meltdown, remember that everything will settle down and become routine before you know it.

Try On a Positive Attitude.

Try to see school as an opportunity instead of a catastrophe. Start small: instead of talking to groups of people, try saying hi to one or two new people a day. Give the impression of a good mood and self-confidence (even if you are shaking inside!). You may be surprised at how much better you'll feel and how many more people will respond in a friendly way.

Know That There's Support.

If you still feel uncomfortable after a few days, see the school guidance counselor, a favorite teacher, or other trusted adult to talk about what's going on. But give yourself time - most problems adjusting to school are only temporary.