Thoughts on the Start of Another School Year

For the third year in a row, our children are about to embark on a new school year that will once again be unable to be classified as “normal.” The Covid-19 Delta variant has created instability where stability was beginning to emerge, and this will further complicate the start of the 2021-22 school year. As we are all anticipating and wondering what might happen next with the pandemic, let’s be very intentional as parents about the priorities and goals we have for our kids this school year. First and foremost should be relationships, connection and empathy. Also, consistently ensure plenty of sleep, even for reluctant teens, as well as ample downtime and opportunities to play. Catching up, grade point averages, and test scores don’t need to be our focus. Reinforce to your kids that it’s always okay to ask for help and let them know you are forever in their corner. Let’s put our energy into fostering a sense of safety, security and resilience in our children. Then, learning and academic progress will follow.