Transitions

The end of the school year can be full of school parties, potlucks, ceremonies, and special events. Children reflect on their year and what they've learned. Some are given special honors at awards ceremonies. Many of us have a love/hate relationship with all of this!

Some children get exhausted. Overexcitement, changing routines, and extra-busy schedules take a toll. Some children don't enjoy the end of school. They may be leaving a class, teacher, school, or community that has been important to them. Some children reach the end of the school year feeling unsuccessful. They may not have learned or accomplished what they wanted, may not be given any special honors, may be compared unfavorably to other children, or may not have made friends they get to say a special goodbye to.

Some of us finish the year with mixed feelings rather than only positive ones. That's confusing in the midst of parties and fun. Don't be surprised if your child:

• is cranky,
• has a hard time getting up in the morning,
• has a hard time falling asleep,
• seems to have forgotten things you're sure they learned,
• seems helpless,
• cries over something small,
• complains a lot,
• is jealous of a friend,
• needs extra time with you,
• doesn't want to talk about next year, or
• wants a break from favorite activities.

Transitions take a lot out of all of us. Take it easy! If possible, listen to your child's feelings rather than expecting them to feel or act a certain way. Schedule down time. Try a break from electronics. Nurture them when they melt down.

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