On Back To School

For the entire month of August I have been writing the wrong month on my notes and checks. Is it June? July? September? No, it's August— the biggest transitional month of the year for parents. It's as if there's a great cosmic shift happening and it feels like the entire universe is rearranging itself, but in reality, it's just back to school! My kids don't actually start until after Labor Day, so we are taking one final hoorah of a vacation before the madness of MAKING LUNCHES EVERY NIGHT begins. Seriously, though, can I get an amen to how horrible making lunches are? And then we all know our little groms only eat 1/5 of what we pack them. What I mostly want to remind all of you hard working moms and dads of, and all the grandparents that do the job of a parent, is that there are literally no perfect people, and that means no perfect kids. Don't expect perfection from yourself or your child this year. It's ok if our kiddos aren't the top performers in their class; what we want are children who are captivated by this marvelous world we live in, and who know how to have empathy for others. So, hold the meltdowns over homework lightly, find rhythms that works for you and your child, and for the love of God, protect rest in your home as much as possible. Because, every parent knows that tiredness is no joke! You're holding a lot, mom and dad, so take good care of yourself. And lastly, with the start of a new year, there often comes with it new fears, mostly social concerns. Stay connected to your child's heart, they also hold a lot during their day. Listen — always listen. If we can understand their struggles with attunement, you will no doubt be the safe place they look forward to coming home to every day. Wishing you all the best school year yet!