Mrs. Gabby Says: School Survival Guide: Beating the First-Day Jitters

The first day of school can feel so overwhelming for kids, teens, teachers, and parents. You have to face something new like you already know what you are doing. The good news?  first day/ week jitters are normal! Everyone is feeling it.

Fun Fact: Your body experiences nervousness and excitement in very similar ways.

The physical sensations are nearly the same: shakiness, racing heart, sweating, butterflies in your tummy. It's often your brain's interpretation that determines whether you feel anxious or excited.

Tip 1: Challenge your racing thoughts

Every time you feel scared or nervous, turn that into excitement. 

Instead of:

😰 “I’m scared I won’t make any friends.”

Try:

😊 “I can’t wait to meet someone new!”

Instead of:

😰 “What if no one sits with me?”

Try:

😊 “I wonder who I’ll get to sit with at lunch.”

Instead of:

😰 “I’m not ready for today.”

Try:

😊 “I’m getting to try something new today.”

Tip 2: Ground yourself

Racing thoughts in class. Scared you’ll be called on next; God forbid you have to introduce yourself with a stupid icebreaker

Time to play I Spy! 🕵️

Look around the room and find:

🔎 1 notebook 🔎 The school map 🔎 A personal item belonging to your teacher 🔎 One blue item 🔎 A pair of shoes you think are cool

Take a few slow breaths while you look for each item.

One last reminder from Mrs. Gabby

You got this!