CHILDREN who are anxious about going back to school after the long summer holidays are getting help.
Educational social workers in Kirklees have been handing out advice to families with children afraid to start the new term.
Home visits have been made to parents to help ease youngsters back into academic life.
A spokeswoman for Kirklees Council said: "We also have a multi-agency anxious non-attenders' group which deals with the more severe cases of children who are extremely anxious about going to school."
Charity Parentline Plus is encouraging parents to call its 24-hour helpline for information and practical advice.
Dorit Braun, chief executive said: "The start of the new school term can be very difficult for families.
"Parents may feel sadness that the extended time together is over, mixed with relief that they have a break from providing all-day care.
"Children may feel excited at a new term and being back with friends, or apprehensive at what awaits them."
Parentline Plus recommends that parents get their children back into a routine by re-introducing a timetable of getting up, mealtimes and bedtimes in the last week of the school holidays.
They also suggest that parents get school clothes and equipment ready and arrange after-school care before the start of the new term.
For more information contact the Parentline Plus freephone 24-hour helpline on 0808 800 2222 or look at the website www.parentlineplus.org.uk for support and ideas.
