Mastering the Back to School Transition

Whether this time of the year is bittersweet or a tremendous sigh of relief, the end of summer has arrived. You've shared about your summer travels, camp experiences for your kids, dance classes, art intensives, and overall, a solid amount of family time. In the excitement of the transition back to school, I wanted to take a little time to remind us all how to be a pro at transitions.

• Don’t forget that kids (and adults) regress during times of stress and change. Even exciting things are stressful, so if you’re noticing shorter tempers, an increase in meltdowns and maybe even some potty accidents, take a breath and keep it together. This, too, shall pass.

• During transitions, increase structure and increase nurture BOTH. It’s not one or the other. Keep bedtimes and wakeup times consistent, schedule a meal as a family every day, and catch things low. Also, increase connection time, snuggle more, give eight hugs a day (I said what I said) and watch the TLC in your voice (Tone, Volume, Cadence).

• Kids do best when they know what to expect.  Write down your schedule.  Stick to your word when possible.  Bring the most consistent version of your parenting self to the relationship so that the parent your child receives is the same today as they are getting tomorrow. 

• Minimize commitments in the first week or two of school.  Don’t drive yourself bonkers with extra appointments and engagements.  Keep it simple while everyone is acclimating to the new schedule.

The Settlement Home Team is here if you need to check in!  Moms Group will start back up virtually later this month, so please don’t hesitate to let me know if you’re interested in joining!