START THE SCHOOL YEAR RIGHT

Myjellybean.com offers quick tips for making sure you start the new school year right:

Get Enough ZZZs the Night Before.

Teens need about 9 to 9 1/2 hours of sleep each night to feel rested and to avoid dozing off in class. You may have been going to bed later and waking up earlier than normal all summer, so get your body ready for the school year's schedule by going to bed earlier for the week before school starts.

Eat Brekkie!

The old saying "breakfast is the most important meal of the day" is never more true than when you're going to school. You will feel more alert and perform better in class if you eat a good breakfast. You'll want to eat some protein to keep your mind and body strong through the morning. Good choices include eggs, peanut butter on toast, or yogurt topped with granola or fruit.

Get Your Stuff Ready.

If you have items that need to be brought to school, such as notebooks or photos you promised to show your friends, place them by the front door so you won't forget them on your way out.

Walk in Feeling Confident.

Give yourself a confidence boost. Look in the mirror and give yourself your very best smile. Say to yourself, "It's going to be a great year!" (Yes, this sounds cheesy... but positive reinforcement really works. This is what Olympic athletes do to psyche themselves up before an event!)

Use Your Time Wisely.

Make use of extra time at school. There are many little moments during the school day when you could review notes and get a handle on what your teachers expect from you this year. Go to the library or computer lab and start your homework or research that big term paper.

Be a Joiner!

One of the best ways to make friends, get in the groove, and learn your way around is by joining school clubs and activities.

Take it Easy.

Realize that school is a big step to the rest of your life, but it's also a time to make friends and try new things. Relax and enjoy!