As summer winds down and a new school year begins, kids, educators and parents all have a lot on their minds.

They may be dealing with fears about school shootings , concerns about teacher shortages or the fallout from harmful legislation, like Floridas Dont Say Gay bill or Stop Woke Act , just to name a few.

And then, of course, there are also the normal jitters that a new school year can bring.

To help make the transition back to the classroom a smoother one, we asked teachers what they wish parents and caregivers would do before the first day of school. (And if your kiddo is already back in school, its not too late to address some of these things!) Heres what they told us:

1. Practice the school routine ahead of time.

In the weeks before school starts, take time to practice wake-up time, the morning routine that you have at home and school bedtime. This is important because, for some students, the transition to a school schedule can be extremely difficult. Giving them the opportunity to practice the routine allows them to get comfortable, feel the routine in place, and it allows time for your family to discuss or work on any frustrations that may arise before it is time to actually go back to school. Tamara, an educator in Colorado and creator behind @ifpencilscouldtalk on Instagram

2. Check in with your child emotionally.

The first day of school can bring a rollercoaster of emotions, especially if its the first day at a new school. Check-in with them about their concerns, feelings, questions and reservations. If they have a concern or question, consider how you can alleviate this before the first day. If youre unsure of how to do so, reach out for help to other school community members. Staci Lamb, a teacher in Maryland and blogger at The Engaging Station

3. Let them know its OK to be nervous.

Before starting school, its important for you to make space for their feelings. ALL their feelings. The good, the bad, and the ugly. Help them understand its OK to be scared and that their teacher is probably scared, too. This helps them validate their feelings and know that its OK to feel however they feel. Lindsay Sauer, teacher and creator behind @sweetnsauerfirsties on Instagram

4. Encourage your kid to ask for help when they need it.

As a high school teacher, I want the parents and guardians of my students to prepare their children mentally. High school can be tough academically, socially, mentally and emotionally. Remind them that you and their teachers are there to support and encourage them. Tell them to always try their best and reach out when they need more help. Explain that their best may look different from day to day as they experience different setbacks and obstacles, but that their best is enough.

Provide them with steps for how to be respectful when they misunderstand something or when something comes up that causes them to struggle. As a teacher, I want nothing more than to see my students succeed and I want to have a strong union with their parents or guardians to support their learning and personal growth. Erin Castillo, a teacher in California and creator behind @affirmationsandaccessibility on Instagram