Going back to school is an exciting time but it can also be an anxious time for kids — and for parents!  Here are a few tips we’ve come up with for overcoming those back to school jitters. And since we’re Scholastic — it’s got to start with books!

Kids love to read about characters that they can relate to.  Books like The New Bear at School , Eddie Gets Ready for School or Ready for Kindergarten, Stinky Face? are great stories about how different kids prepare for school.  The Scholastic Store and Scholastic Top Picks offer books like these.  I found a bunch of titles for my nieces and nephews and my friend’s kids.  I’m not a parent yet, but when I become one, I’ll be ready!

Parents need to prepare for back-to-school, too. Changes in your kids’ schedules mean changes in yours, so our Parents channel on Scholastic.com has lots of information to help support you. If your child is entering kindergarten, help them count down to the big day and ease their minds with these tips on making friends, finding the right school, and more.

There’s also a Back-to-School Guide that has it all, from easing school jitters to setting up the perfect homework area, from packing healthy lunches to communicating with your kids’ teachers. There’s even an 8-step plan that can help your child get organized — transforming from a backpack pat-rat to a planning pro!

If you have any other ideas, feel free to share them in the comments!