School’s Back From Summer…School’s Back Forever (not really)

This time of year is stressful for everyone. The teachers are stressed out because they have to return to work. They have to get lesson plans together and be creative with their teaching methods for the new year’s students. It’s simple to say teachers wear many hats. They are a teacher, a counselor, a friend and parent at times. Multiply this by 25 students and you have one tired teacher. But, we haven’t left out the parents. Parents are stressed because they have to buy school supplies, uniforms or clothes for the year. They have to figure out how their child will get back and forth to school. Parents have to relearn to juggle work and household responsibilities, in addition to the stresses that come with having school aged children. This includes homework, extracurricular activities, your child’s emotional well-being, and your own personal well-being. Children are stressed because they have to return to a routine. They have to worry about passing their classes, making friends, deciding to stand out or fit in with a crowd, their external appearance at school and extracurricular activities. Children also experience the stress of not feeling good enough to those around them. Students want to appease their parents, teachers and friends, causing them to play different roles with everyone. The stress of being everything to everyone can sometimes lead to emotional distress.

It is important for teachers, parents, and students to engage in self-care activities. Everyone has their personal preference; however, here are a few things to get you started if you’re unsure about what you can do. Spending time with friends is a great way to “recharge your battery.” Friends allow you the space and opportunity to be free and express yourself fully. Engage in something that awakens you spiritually, which can be attending church, meditating, taking a long walk, taking a drive, listening to music, yoga, or reading. Planning ahead can help alleviate the stress of feeling overwhelmed or being in a rush. Asking for help serves the same purpose. Just say no—it is okay to decline taking on extra responsibilities when your plate is full. Challenge yourselves to make this school year less stressful than the previous year.