The beginning of the school year is tough.
For both the parents and the kids.
Often kids are exhausted from having to sit, work, listen, cooperate, and collaborate with others in school. That might not sound like a big deal to us, the adults, but for kids, the transition to the start of the school year is a big one.
Before you ask yourself, “Will I survive the school year?” here are some suggestions for survival.
1. Create a Peace Corner.
This is a space that your child can use to decompress, regain his or her composure, and have some peace and quiet to unwind. I’ll be writing more about this in the future.
2. Maintain a schedule.
Maintaining a consistent schedule will help the adjustment period go by quicker. There’s always wiggle room but if things stay the same, they’ll know what to expect and know what’s coming next.
3. Use a code word.
A few weeks ago, I was in a terrible funk. I was so cranky and so busy being cranky that I didn’t notice it. So with the help of the kids we determined a code word that we say when someone is acting a bit cranky. We gently say it to a person (“Mommy? Are you feeling a little bit *strawberries* today?” Yes, our cranky word is strawberries.). This allows the person to realize their behavior is not what it should be and also gives them a chance to go take a break or do something to get out of their funk.
4. Be patient.
Children need some extra patience during this transition time and while they may need more reminders of what is and is not appropriate at home, they’ll also need your patience while they navigate their new found freedoms and independence.
When Kate started Kindergarten it took until almost Christmas for us to be in a good routine. She came home exhausted every single day even though she loved school. You’ll all survive. I promise. (And I remind myself of this many times during the beginning of the school year!)
Do you have a harder time adjusting to the school year or do your kids have a harder time?
xoxo
–k
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Great post, it's never easy when the kids go back to school.
I love this!
Shared on SU.