Back to School Already?!

Nah, is this for real? I have lived down south for many years now, and I am still not used to kids going back to school at the BEGINNING of August! Although most of my children have graduated from high school already, I do still have one in middle school. Time has flown by so fast that it is hard for me to believe that she is going to the seventh grade. I have been here before, but this time feels different.

Even though she is taller than I and her older sister, she still has this sweet innocence about her that makes me want to keep her "little". I'm sure the condition of the world that we live in is not helping with my feelings. But make no mistake, I am fully aware that she needs to know and be made aware of all of the pitfalls that are right around the corner if she isn't careful. In this age of technology and access, it has become more challenging to shield our children from the things that they may not be mature enough to handle. All I can do is prepare her for what may come her way.

This year, her school has added a police officer to its payroll as the size of the student body has more than doubled. The "Meet the Teacher" invite turned into a "Scare the kids straight" speech. I get it, certain things need to be said so that trouble-makers can be put on notice "not to start no ish". Regardless of that fact, I am sure that there will still be those students who test the waters, so the presentation was necessary.

What I was really listening to hear about was the car rider line situation! Can I get an amen? Especially at the beginning of the school year. Every year, it's like no one knows how to make the process smooth and efficient. I have found something productive to do with my time in the car rider line. Most times, I can make it through a 20-30 minute podcast, and I am not complaining about that. I LOVE a good podcast! But every school system needs to do better with this.

Despite all of that, I am optimistic that this will be a good year. As parents, all we can do is start meaningful conversations with our children about their day to learn how we can support them. The trick is that they can't know what we are doing. What do I mean by this? Well, first, when we inquire about their day with more meaningful questions than "How was your day?", it makes them feel like we actually do care about their day.

Instead of asking that question, we may want to ask at the beginning of the week, "What math concept are you working on this week?". Whatever the answer may be, a follow-up question can be, "Are you understanding that concept, or could you use more support?" Then, perhaps we can encourage them to ask questions during class or stay after school. If your child tends to be more on the shy side, email the teacher on their behalf and request additional assistance. This can be done regardless of the subject. Another thing that I have always done with her is morning affirmations. Each year they change, and sometimes from day to day, they change according to what she needs.

Try this and let me know how it works out for you. I want to hear from my parents out there. What are some things that you do for or with your children to let them know that you are interested in their day?

Comment below and let's share advice.

Until next time...With love,

Tee Marie 🧡

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