But don't wait until the night before to try them. Visit the classroom before day one, preferably when the teacher is there. Take your child on a tour so they know where the bathroom is, where they'll eat and play. If school is locked, at least walk the grounds, letting them play on the playground equipment. Having an idea of where things are can help relieve their anxiety.
Most schools have an orientation for new students.
Try to find a child there that your child already knows or connects with and schedule a brief playdate before school starts. When they see a familiar face on the first day, they'll feel more relaxed. Request a conference with your child's teacher, or at least, write a letter telling him or her your child's likes and dislikes, how your child expresses anger, sadness and joy, chronic illness or allergies, everything they need to know about your child. Keep the rest of your child's life predictable. Read to your child at least 20 minutes a day as a bonding opportunity, as well as a learning tool.