Some kids look forward to the start of school—others are less than thrilled about it. On this site designed to help parents encourage their children, start at the “MotivationStation” for articles on various issues from academic performance to fitting in at school. On the home page, find links to homework help, including step-by-step math assistance for computationally challenged adults. Created by: Discovery Education, Silver Spring, MD.

Youngsters heading off to preschool or kindergarten for the very first time can sneak a peek at the fun and interesting things in store via this sweet site. Young users (and their parents) explore the classroom simply by moving the big yellow star from side to side. Activities include shapes, colors, letters, snack time, and the magnifying glass. Created by: Sesame Workshop, New York, NY. Don’t miss: The book shelf, where kids can listen to the story “Henry the Little Fish and the First Day at School.” For another cute first-day-of-school activity, visit “The Blue School Bag.” 

Will my child feel comfortable with her teacher? What will he be learning? Parents anticipating the first day of school will find answers to common questions on this PBS site. Topics include “Talking with Kids About School” and “What Kids Learn at School—Grade by Grade.” Created by: The Public Broadcasting Service, Arlington, VA. Don’t miss: “The Secrets of Your Child’s Social Life” tackles tough issues, including “The Laws of Friendship.” Also be sure to read the Q&A responses from Dr. Lawrence Cohen on children’s friendships—great advice!

Prepping classrooms and libraries for the first day is often a last-minute task. This includes, of course, devising new and interesting “welcome” bulletin boards and those displays needed throughout the year. Chock-full of great ideas and printouts, Teacher Helpers will save time and perhaps make bulletin boards a task you actually enjoy. Created by: Kathy Schrock, Director of Technology, Nauset (MA) Public Schools. Don’t miss: The clever ideas for library bulletin boards by Clayton (CO) Public Schools.

Yet another site that every teacher and librarian gearing up for the start of school will be sure to appreciate. Here you’ll find a wealth of links to time-saving templates relevant to the first weeks of school and throughout the year. Created by: Education World, San Diego, CA. Don’t miss: Help kids get acquainted with the back-to-school student name tags and the “Icebreakers.”