Think about the last time you started a new job.
Even if you were excited about it, those first few weeks were probably a lot.
New people. New routines. New expectations. Learning where things are and how things are done. Trying to remember everyone’s name. Figuring out the personalities of the people around you.
And on top of all of that, you wanted to do a good job.
It’s exhausting!
Now imagine doing all of that when you’re 8.
That’s really what we’re asking our kids to do when they start a new school year.
They’re walking into a new classroom with a new teacher, new classmates, new routines, new expectations, and harder work than they had the year before.
Some kids adjust pretty quickly. Others need more time.
And for our kids who are already working harder to read, focus, follow directions, stay regulated, or keep up with what’s happening around them, those first few weeks can take a lot out of them.
So maybe these first few weeks call for a little extra.
An earlier bedtime. An extra hug. A little more reassurance. Some quiet time after school instead of asking a bunch of questions right away. Or simply understanding that the child who falls apart at home may have spent all day working really hard to hold it together.
And parents, I think we need a little extra grace too.
Because in some ways, we’re starting a new job right along with them.
We wonder how they’re doing when we’re not there. We hope they like their teacher. We hope they’re making friends. We hope this is the year they feel successful.
And if school has been difficult in the past, there can be that little worry in the back of your mind.
Is this year going to be different?
The first few weeks don’t always give us that answer.
Sometimes everyone simply needs a little time to settle in and figure out the new job.
But you also know your child.
If a few weeks go by and you’re starting to see those familiar struggles again, pay attention.
Maybe reading is already bringing frustration. Maybe homework is taking much longer than it should. Maybe you’re hearing, “I can’t do this,” or seeing your child begin to shut down.
It doesn’t have to become another whole year of struggling before you ask for help.
Sometimes our kids don’t need to try harder.
They need someone to help them understand how they learn and give them tools that make sense for the way they think.
That’s what we do at Minnesota Learning Solutions.
So as we head into another school year, give your child some time to settle in. Give yourself some time too.
And if you begin to wonder if what you’re seeing is more than just adjusting to a new school year, reach out.
I’d love to talk with you.
