Solairee

So sorry that you are anxious about all this right now. I can well imagine how difficult it is for you. You have gotten some really great ideas from the previous posters.

As far as dealing with your anxiety up until the meeting, there are lots of things you can do. When you find yourself thinking about the fear, go out for a walk...use a walkman and listen to some inspirational music (or whatever you like that is calming). You can excercise...jog, run in place, or even garden. As soon as you feel the feeling coming over you, busy yourself with something else to take your mind off the fear that is nagging at you.

I like to be prepared when I have to speak in front of folks. I have that phobia too. I will write down points I want to make to people and possible questions they will ask, then I come up with my answers and I practice speaking in front of a mirror so I can work on my facial expressions. I am also really good at using humor to break the ice, not only with other folks, but mostly for myself. Even if I have to use myself as the reason for the humor....it helps a lot. Like I'll say to folks, "Ok, I'm really nervous and I know I'm going to speak in circles at some point. If someone can boot me in the right direction now and again, I'd really appreciate it!" It usually brings a giggle and the ice is broken.

I've found that it's not necessarily a bad thing to let folks know that you are nervous and having a difficult time. That way, they go away with the knowledge that you have reached out to them and explained why you may be red in the face and they aren't assuming things that are incorrect.
You could also write out a short syllabus of what you will be teaching throughout the school year that you can refer the parents to when they have questions. That would give you the opportunity to shorten some of the "talk" time

I wish you well and I know you will be fine...we always seem to get through those times we dread the most when we push forward through the fears.

Take good care!

Hugsss
sabby