Wake Up! It's time for School

I'm days away from muttering those words to my children. I'm filled with anticipation and excitement for them as they embark on a new school in a new state. They will meet new teachers and make new friends... It's all sooo New.

This is also the time of year I observe, very closely I might add, how teachers interact with students and parents with children. I'm always so intrigued at how clueless some adults can truly be.

New is hard. New is change, but unfortunately we don't always grasp that kids really have difficulty transitioning into New. Yes they are capable, yes they are resilient.

But don't be surprised to hear the week before school, "I can't sleep." or "My stomach hurts." or "I hate school." It takes time for kids to overcome their own fears.

Be patient and loving. Be encouraging yet set some boundaries. Don't spend too much time playing into their fears. Acknowledge that New is hard, but remind them of their strength and ability to get through it.

And after you drop them off on the first day of school...treat yourself to a Starbucks for making it through the summer.

And if you're a teacher---have one of those mom's pick you up a Starbucks on the way to drop them off.