School Starts in Northeast Cobb

The new school year launched today, causing a mix of emotions in parents and children who are faced with the hustle-n-bustle of school schedules.

"I was not ready for the school traffic; the lines of cars to drop off and pick up the kids at school," said a Northeast Cobb mom at Kincaid Elementary School. "Getting my son out of bed this morning was a real chore. We were almost late to school. We really need to get our act together."

Back-to-school is a time of transition for both parents and kids, and it isn't always easy. 

Northeast Cobb child therapist Lynn Louise-Wonders believes a consistent routine can solve anxiety for returning students.

"I recommend parents implement a consistent routine from the time children get off the bus in the afternoon through the next morning when they get on the bus. Be certain your children know what to expect and have a plan for unforseen glitches," she said.

Wonders also recommends that parents cut out sugary snacks, make certain children are getting healthy protein, complex carbohydrates and plenty of fruits and veggies for snacks and meals.

"I can't emphasize enough how important plenty of quality sleep in a consistent schedule is to the mental health of children. Be sure your kids have a pre-bedtime routine of an hour that is technology free and lends to winding down for the night before lights out. Be sure they are getting enough sleep. Their bodies and brains are growing so rapidly - 8 to 10 hours is crucial," she said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta recommends 10 to 11 hours for elementary school ages, and eight-and-a-half to nine-and-a-half hours for middle school and up.

Michele Mizzell with Cobb schools points to the district's website to help parents figure out schedules and times to create routines. She added that students are allowed to bring water in containers with tops on buses in August and September to stay hydrated.