We’re near the end of another school year, but that doesn’t mean it’s time for you or your child to check out. This is a great time to help refuel your kid’s energy to finish the year strong. There are many ways you can help your child avoid being burned out, make the most of the next two months, and propel them to charge on at a steady clip.
Recap & Regroup
Whether your child is a toddler or a teen, they are still developing socially, emotionally, and academically, and a lot can change within one year! Take stock of the growth they have made this year. Acknowledge accomplishments. Ask your child how this has been a great – or good – school year. Toss in your reflections too. Important memorable moments that stand out for you might have been missed by your child. The mere fact that you’ve paid attention will help your child feel recognized.
Then, pivot to focus on potential needs. Listen attentively to your child’s stories and struggles. Come up with solutions together and seek out support where needed. Between your collaborative ideas, and school and community resources, there’s no shortage of positive (and potentially fun) ways to help your child end this school year on a high note.
Social Swerves
This year, you might have noticed a shift in your child’s friend groups or close friends. These changes are common as your child ages and get to know themselves. If your child hasn’t yet found their dream team, don’t worry. That takes time. Ask your child to try out a school social club or attend an upcoming event they’ve mentioned but not committed to. Talk with your child about the key characteristics of a good friend.
By taking advantage of opportunities for new experiences and connections these next couple of months, you’ll help your child feel a greater sense of belonging. This can make it easier for your child to form friendships. Be sure to get potential friends' names and contact information before the school year ends. Being proactive can help prepare your child for a fun summer with get-togethers to fill their social-emotional needs and wants.
Academic Aches
If your child has had a rocky year academically, consider the reasons for this and make a plan to address the causes. Look at your child’s upcoming assignments and find out your child’s plan for tackling them. Schedule time to work together if they’re having trouble getting started – or stuck in the process. Let your child take the lead.
If your child is in danger of failing a course, check in with the teacher about options for staying afloat. Can the teacher meet with your child or have an aide work with them in a small group? Is tutoring available on-site before or after school? Is Saturday school an option to catch up?
Mental & Emotional Health
Your child’s overall well-being affects everything else in their life: how they feel about themselves, their attitudes, and their mindset. If your child won’t open up to you, let them know you care and are available. This alone can unload a heavy burden and bolster their outlook. Then, stay close and monitor for signs of added stress.
Contact your child’s teacher and/or pediatrician if you have serious concerns. Also, remind your child that the school has other support, such as a school counselor or wellness center. If your child is willing to go for a visit, a school counselor is a safe sounding board who also can help with short-term goal setting and resources.
Healthy Habits
It’s important throughout the year to re-evaluate habits that contribute to our well-being. This is especially needed during transition times. With upcoming State testing, final projects and exams, school celebrations, and summer planning, the end of the school year can be hectic.
Ensure your child gets enough sleep, eats healthy meals regularly, stays hydrated with water, and gets in some activity and outdoor time each day. If one of these is out of balance, get creative!
Take evening walks or bike rides together – or encourage your child to do this with a friend, plan for a picnic and make some meals together, decorate a refillable liquid-tracking container they’ll find inspiring to carry, and turn down the lights and power off electronics at least 1 hour before bedtime.
Lastly, be sure your calendar is up to date so you’re not scrambling to get materials for an upcoming project or food and supplies for an event. Have fun. You’ve got this!
Wendy J. Rosenthal is a writer, educator, and graduate student for an MA in Counseling and PPS Credential in School Counseling. She was appointed by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond to serve on his Parent Advisory Council. She and her two children reside in Salinas with their rescue pup Sherman.