It is back to school time again, some students have already been back for a few days with the rest following this week.

It is an exciting time of year but also a time of year that can pose some challenges for kids and parents.

The wonderful Dr Mary O’Kane (parenting and early childhood education expert) joined Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis to help guide us through it all:

HANDLE WITH CARE

Mary also spoke about this inspiring message:

One to consider for all the teachers out there! Not intended for big issues, but for the little things, the days they are just a bit off-kilter! A little kindness goes a long way! https://t.co/eoeSqZWyv8

— Dr Mary O'Kane (@MOKEarlyYears) August 29, 2021

LISTENER QUESTIONS ANSWERED

"Alison and Mary my daughter who is 8 has become very clinging over the summer and I am worried how back to school might impact her or how she will manage back in the classroom - or is it something I should even worry about."

Anita in Roscommon 

"I have a 14 year old son who left school last year feeling detached from a lot of kids in his class. Over the summer it has come out more and more that he felt bullied by a few of the other boys. We are hoping a break from them this summer will set it all straight again but wondering if there is anything we can do in the first few weeks back to help him with all of this. I know it is an absolute mind-field. Thank you."

Diarmuid in Carlow 

"I found often last year when I picked up my son (who is 7) he didn’t transition from the busy classroom to homelife very well . He often had a meltdown shortly after getting home would Mary have any tips on how to make this transition smoother this year as mammy doesn’t think she can handle this all over again this year!"

Sylvia in Dublin