Techniques for helping children deal effectively with change are reviewed. (MT)

Ideas are presented for parents in reducing their child's anxiety about school, including (1) talk with the child; (2) discuss how to relate to teachers; (3) suggest ways of making friends; (4) help children become organized; and (5) accept the child. (CB)

Parents can encourage their children to communicate openly about difficult subjects if they learn to make themselves approachable and help their children turn their toughest feelings into words. The article identifies types of issues often kept hidden, then explains how to build skills and create an open environment. (SM)

Parents are advised on ways to cope with the peer pressure associated with clothes. Techniques focus on countering and preventing peer pressure or, at least, putting it into healthier perspective. A list of retorts children can make to peer critics is included. (IAH)

Parents must help their children distinguish between wants and needs and put them in a balanced perspective. Children need to learn to respect differences in people rather than base their judgments on socioeconomic status. The article suggests ways parents can grab teachable moments to reinforce their values and decisions. (SM)