Whether you’re the head of a modeling agency like me, or you’re an aunt , I bet you’d like to pass along some words of wisdom to your nieces and nephews for the sometimes stressful back-to-school process. Here are tips and tricks you’ll find in my books, My Self, My Life, My Beauty, and My Look .

1.     The day before school starts is no time to get a haircut.  Make sure to do this about 2 weeks before school starts to leave a little wiggle room in case it’s too short.

2.    Would you believe that pink reduces stress? Make sure to work pink into your wardrobe when the homework begins to pile up.  A bubblegum shade of pink actually has soothing powers and lowers blood pressure!

3.     The beginning of the school year is a great opportunity to meet new people. Try to talk to one new person every day – by the end of the September you’ll have a bunch of new friends.

4.    Even if you’re really nervous as you approach a conversation, fake confidence and stand with your shoulders back and your head up.  Your body says as much as your words.

5.     You’re the shortest one in the class, don’t make believe you didn’t notice, make a dumb joke about it like – good thing is you’re always last to get wet when it’s raining.  Ask around for other dumb short jokes.

6.     Want to dress up for a school dance but can’t stand to wear wedgies - what about a pair of sparkly ballet slippers?  They’ll certainly do the trick and are totally comfortable!”

7.    Want to be cool but you’re not allowed wear makeup in school - check the medicine cabinet for Vaseline – a little dab works just the same as gloss.

8.    When shopping for school supplies pop an extra pencil case in the basket and turn it into a case for your i-pod, your phone or your makeup.

9.    Quick and cool afternoon snack: Pop four handfuls of grapes in a plastic zip-top bag and pop it in the freezer. Do it in the morning so you’ll have a sweet and juicy after-school snack.

10.    Just because school is starting, doesn’t mean you have to stop playing outside. Take advantage of the beautiful autumn weather by playing sports or taking a walk after school with your friends!

Check out my books (hotlink) and my website www.justaskmarlene.com for more cool  tips from my JAM Journal.

You can always Just Ask Marlene your questions in the Comments section below, or email Savvy Auntie at Editor@SavvyAuntie.com to pass the message along to me.