Joanna Fortune: My son is anxious about starting secondary school 

"One of the ways our children learn to strengthen and enhance their capacity to self-regulate their emotions is to experience a full range of emotions, including the more challenging feelings."

"One of the ways our children learn to strengthen and enhance their capacity to self-regulate their emotions is to experience a full range of emotions, including the more challenging feelings."

My 12-year-old son is stressed about starting secondary school in September. We’ve visited the school and met very welcoming staff members. 

Also, one of his best friends is going to the school. Regardless of what I say, he is dreading it. What can I do or say to help him make the transition?