Special Edition: A Takeover on Mental Health as a Parent PART THREE

Hello!

I know you’re expecting a newsletter from Jake, but the doctors are out of the office this week (Jake and Ari are visiting Sardinia, Italy on a well-deserved break) and he has asked me to fill in again! For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Lauren. I’m Jake’s assistant and, more importantly, his sister. 😊

Before we get started, however, I have a quick message from Jake:

“I’ll be back next week with our regular newsletter content, but I wanted to take a moment to remind you of something that has really helped me at times.

It is okay to disconnect from the news in order to protect your mental health and take care of yourself during this tumultuous time.

Practice self care whenever needed.”

This week, I’m here to talk about something that’s close to my heart and probably very relevant to many of you: the transition from summer to the back-to-school season, and how we, as parents, can navigate these changes while maintaining our sanity and supporting our children’s mental health.

Now, I know those of you up north are probably asking why this is coming out in July, but those of us in the south are heading back to school in the next few weeks!

Navigating the Back-to-School Transition

As the long, carefree days of summer wind down, the shift back to school routines can be challenging for both parents and children. Here are a few strategies I’ve found helpful over the years with my four kids, ranging in age from 3 to 14.

1. Gradually Re-establish Routines

Summer often means later bedtimes and more relaxed schedules. To ease the transition, start re-establishing school routines a couple of weeks before school starts. Gradually move bedtime earlier and set consistent wake-up times. This helps reset your children’s internal clocks and makes the first week of school less of a shock.

2. Create a Positive Mindset About School

Talk to your children about the exciting aspects of going back to school: seeing friends, learning new things, and participating in fun activities. Address any anxieties they may have by listening to their concerns and reassuring them. We always make a special event out of shopping for school supplies. It gets the kids excited about the new school year and gives them a sense of ownership over their education.

3. Prepare Together

Involve your children in back-to-school preparations. Let them help pack their school bags, choose their outfits, and organize their study spaces. This not only makes them feel involved but also helps them mentally prepare for the upcoming changes.

End of Summer Reflections

The end of summer is also a time for reflection. As parents, it’s a good opportunity to think about what worked well over the summer and what didn’t. Here’s how I reflect and prepare for the new school year:

1. Celebrate Achievements and Memories

Take some time to celebrate the fun and achievements of the summer. Create a scrapbook or a photo album with your kids, capturing all the memorable moments. This can help transition from summer to school by cherishing the good times and looking forward to making new memories.

2. Set Goals for the New School Year

Discuss and set goals with your children for the upcoming school year. Whether it’s academic achievements, making new friends, or participating in extracurricular activities, having goals can motivate them and give them something to look forward to.

3. Plan for Self-Care

With the school year approaching, it’s crucial to think about your self-care routines as well. Juggling work, school, and extracurricular activities can be exhausting. Plan for regular self-care activities that help you recharge, whether it’s exercising, reading, or spending time with friends.

Transitioning in Parenthood

Transitions are a constant in parenting. As your children grow, their needs and your parenting strategies must adapt. The back-to-school period is a reminder of how quickly time flies and how important it is to stay flexible and supportive. Here are a few thoughts on navigating these transitions:

1. Embrace Change

Each new school year brings changes, not just for your children but for you as a parent. Embrace these changes as opportunities to grow together. Be open to adjusting routines and strategies to better meet your children’s evolving needs.

2. Stay Connected

As children grow older, they may become more independent, but it’s crucial to stay connected. Make time for regular check-ins, family dinners, and activities that you can enjoy together. Maintaining a strong connection helps your children feel supported and understood.

3. Practice Patience and Compassion

Transitions can be stressful for everyone involved. Practice patience and compassion, both for your children and yourself. It’s okay to have rough days and make mistakes. What matters is how you handle these moments and move forward.

Closing Thoughts

I hope these tips and reflections help you navigate the back-to-school transition smoothly. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Be kind to yourself and your children as you all adjust to the new routines and challenges.

Thank you for letting me step in again this week. Wishing you all a smooth and joyful transition back to school!

Warmly,

Lauren

Disclaimer: These emails do not assume a doctor-patient relationship and my information is not intended to substitute for medical advice. I offer science-backed educational information aimed at empowering you to live your best life. Always consult your personal doctor before starting any treatment. My views and opinions are always my own and do not reflect the views or opinions of my employer. My newsletter will always be free.