Back to school is always a busy time. Parents and children prepare with new school supplies, uniforms, backpacks, lunchboxes, and shoes. I’m usually one of those moms who starts searching for school supply specials early on in the summer, gradually organizing my children’s stuff for the upcoming school year. This summer I found myself far from excited to jump into back to school preparations.
Much like most moms out there, I have been experiencing different emotions about back to school - fear, worry, angst, sadness, frustration to name just some. Nothing is ever certain in life, but in the past it was a bit more predictable. We feel safe when things are predictable.
Being both a mom and an educator, I know that for me, my children, and my students to transition into the school year (whatever that will look like) with some calm and ease, requires taking on healthy habits and routines. Here are my suggestions and things that I have been doing:
Reestablish bedtime routines. In the summer bedtimes are often more relaxed. Getting to sleep early and sleeping at night is necessary for for both adults and children. Especially now when we have even more to think about, calming our minds will help us be able to navigate all that we are facing.
Involve your children in preparing for back to school. My 7 year old Adele led her younger brothers in organizing their school supplies. She guided them with their lists and showed them how to label their stuff. Children feel more in control and gain confidence when they are part of the plan.
Practice morning and evening rituals. In our house we often light candles in the morning and read bedtime stories every night. My husband rereads some of the same stories to our little ones, many of which have become their favorites. Rituals makes us feel safe and give us some predictability. In a time filled with uncertainty we need as much familiarity and sameness as we can get.
Talk to your children about what is happening , answer their questions, and address their concerns. Often we don’t have the answers as the situation changes daily. When I don’t have an answer all I can share is that I don’t have the answer to that right now but when I know more I will share with you. Reassure them that you will do what is best for them - for their health, safety, and learning.
Speaking to other parents and sharing is a way to not only get information and another perspective but also to offer each other support and a reminder that you are not alone in having concerns and worries. A few simple, kind words like I’m thinking of you is usually all we need to feel supported.
Knowing our limits is also important. Too much discussion can be a source of stress. The reality is we don’t know what is to come. Taking the time to do things that bring us joy and also release the worry like movement, exercise, getting outside in nature can calm our minds.
You are always welcome to reach out to me. I am here to share ideas, tools, strategies with you for both moms and children.
Wishing you a healthy and safe school year!
With love,
Beth
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