Are your kids nervous about the first day of school?

Even if they've already loaded their backpacks with those brand-new supplies and picked out what they're going to wear, they might have a case of the jitters. And it can be worse if they're moving up or transferring to a new school.

First grade can seem a bit scary after kindergarten, and middle school may look like a huge jump from grade school. And what about that first day of high school, with all those mighty seniors around?

For advice to kids on how to get through those crucial first days, The Times asked Orange County students of all ages to share their wisdom and experience. Here's what they suggest for those entering grade school, middle school or high school:

FACTS FOR FIRST GRADE:

"Don't be afraid. And make friends so you'll have a lot of fun." Michelle Phee, 8, of Lake Forest; Glen Yermo Elementary.

"Be nice to everyone because you want all the kids to be your friends. Also work hard. My teacher said that is the most important thing." Dennis Nguyen, 6, of Westminster; Muir Fundamental.

"If you get into trouble on the playground, there's always teachers or supervisors watching, so come to them, and they always have a very nice answer." Sara Fox, 9, of Yorba Linda; Travis Ranch Elementary.

"Try not to start things at the last minute. One time I turned in a project late, and I got a C-. And sometimes if you are late with something they make you skip a recess." Christina Huapaya, 10, of Tustin; Arroyo Elementary.

"It's OK because everybody's nice. No one's mean to you." Kelsey Paulino, 7, of Aliso Viejo; Foxborough Elementary.

"Make sure and ask questions, and make sure to wear a uniform so you won't get sent back home. Make sure you do your work because if you don't, you'll get bad grades and won't be able to go to college or get a job." Tracy Adams, 11, of Anaheim; Mattie Lou Maxwell Elementary.

"It's just like home, but you're not with your mom, you're with your friends." Jenny Phee, 10, of Lake Forest; Glen Yermo Elementary.

"Always do your best and make lots of friends, and get good grades so you can go on to the next grade level." Amanda Skolburg, 7, of Placentia; John O. Tynes Elementary.

METHODS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL:

"First impressions are big. You've got to kind of kiss up because you want to be on the most popular people's good side right away, or they'll make your year, like, really bad." Christina Peschelt, 14, of Newport Beach; Ensign Intermediate.