Simplified: It's OK to cry in the car after drop-off, and it's also OK to keep tabs on your high schooler. Sioux Falls Simplified asked local teachers for their advice and what they wish parents knew as they're sending their kids back to school.

Hit me with the tips

Ok, a quick preface, though – certainly the advice for the parent of a kindergartener will be different than a high schooler, and some things are just good advice across the board. Here's a little mix of all of that:

Start with sleep

A good night's sleep can make a big difference for any kid, but especially the younger students who need as much as nine to 12 hours per night to have the energy necessary to make it through the day.

Get on the school tech

Make sure you have access to things like grades and other important parent communications via programs like Infinite Campus, Canvas, MySchoolBucks, and the Sioux Falls School District app.

Don't be afraid to be an involved parent – even with the big kids

"We really encourage parent communication," said Joshua Smith, freshman academy coordinator at Lincoln High School. "If you aren't successful as a ninth grader ... the rate of graduation decreases. It's critical for parents to stay involved."

Be mindful of your kid and screens

Eugene Field Elementary School Counselor Stephanie Slaba said she recommends parents check out the "Wait Until 8th" website for resources on why it's important to delay getting kids a smartphone until at least eighth grade.

"There's no need to cause anxiety and body image issues and all of these things," Slaba said. "We’re seeing our 5th and 4th graders act more like middle schoolers because they are being exposed to those things in elementary school (via smartphone)."

Parents set the tone

This applies both to the morning before kids get to school and drop-off itself.

"If your kid is nervous, you want to make sure they’re not seeing you nervous," Slaba said.

Try, try, try again

For kids in middle and high school, especially, it's important to encourage them to not only work hard, but also to give things a try, even if it seems too hard, Smith said.

If students can get something down, it gives the teacher at least some understanding of where they're at. Then, the teacher can help pick up where the confusion starts.

When in doubt, ask

This is true for parents and students. Whenever there's a question or concern, just ask.

"We have such an experienced staff," Smith said. "You just have to reach out, and people are more than willing to help."