Many schools are already in session. Some will wait until after Labor Day. For many it will be their first adventure into the unknown as they enter kindergarten. For the seasoned college students, there are still anxious moments concerning class credits, living with another set of roommates. deciding what your major will be. For most parents, there is a period of separation anxiety, but it is soon replaced with freedom of a sort. Wherever you are in this category – parents or students – there will be adjustments to make.
I had an eye-opening experience the summer before entering high school. I acted as a nanny for an adopted child who had made many adjustments already in her short life. She was the center of the household. She was an only child. She was doted on – got her own way most of the time – and quickly realized that she ruled the roost. The lessons I learned in the process helped me enter high school with a whole different perspective. The experience taught me that I was responsible for another human being. I learned that the child wouldn’t always agree with me. I played games with her which challenged both of us. We learned to do things together rather than separately. A bond was created. This opened doors for me as I entered high school. Putting others first, is a good solution to most problems that arise.
When a child goes to his first day of school there are many new things to experience, explore, discover and learn. A teacher has her hands full of all kinds of issues, with assorted backgrounds. There are so many controls on teachers today, along with creating a safe environment for these little ones. Socialization is one of them. Teamwork, solving problems, being creative are crucial in this part of early education, and in my opinion should be taught first at home. There are those children who are shy about mixing in with strangers – those who are unable to understand that the world doesn’t revolve around them – those who don’t know how to share. There are the friendly, approachable kids who are cooperative, and those who want to be the leaders. Quite a mixed bag of challenges.
When a student reaches college, the adjustments are even greater. For many, it’s their first time living in a different environment than their family home. Like in a marriage, the first year seems to be the hardest, because the personal, societal and physical differences are a combination which can create all kinds of chaos. Again, that old lesson that I learned so long ago, continues to hold true. When we can put ourselves in another’s shoes, we will gain a greater understanding of them and their needs. That doesn’t mean one should be a doormat for the other, but there should be compromises and discussions to clear the air for the future. Often college roommates will go on to be lifetime friends. Some will never speak to each other again. Hopefully, they can choose to adapt and accept each other (faults and all) or complain and be miserable. Encourage your college students to be willing to give up when necessary – to look for the good in those they are closest to, without compromising their beliefs – try to understand another person’s point of view and work together to maintain a comfortable situation for everyone. All of those things will help them succeed in whatever path they choose
I’m so glad my school days are over, but learning never really ends. Most of our social skills are learned by trial and error. Many never overcome their fears, their shortcomings or failures, but they are God’s creation and the future of America. Whatever we can do as parents, will not only prepare them, but also equip them with the right stuff.
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it,” Proverbs 22;6 ESV
atimetoshare.me 
Amen, Mama K! What a beautiful piece filled with wisdom and truth! “When we can put ourselves in another’s shoes, we will gain a greater understanding of them and their needs. That doesn’t mean one should be a doormat for the other, but there should be compromises and discussions to clear the air for the future.” From the beginning you speak of putting others first and the changes you went through helping others and being a student. This is beautiful! As a teacher and mom, you have seen firsthand all the challenges. You are so right–learning never ends. I was just visiting with a friend about this. One of my college friends is still near and dear to my heart, too. I often worried as a parent about all my mistakes. I’ve handed these boys over to Christ, knowing they’re not really “mine”, but did the best I could. I don’t live in guilt anymore. I see them “preparing” their children. I pray for the teachers, the schools, the parents,…our future. God, help them all. Kathy, you’re such a blessing to all of us. Thank you. I love you. ❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are an angel. One who inspires and encourages and gives so much of yourself to others. God is so good. He loves us with such a perfect love. I have days when I wonder how my life is going to change without the one I love. I pray that we could travel to heaven together. I will suddenly start crying for no reason and realize I’ve been trying to be positive and encouraging to everyone else. Like you, I am a people pleaser, and hate when I get emotional, especially for Paul’s sake. Thanks for always saying the right thing. You’re wisdom is beyond your age. I love you❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are so precious to me. Your words always soothe my soul. I can only imagine how you feel about Paul. But I do understand the crying for no reason! I’m learning to place good boundaries. That has been difficult. I’m learning that those who love us, will not ask for more than we can give. Therefore, we only have to worry about pleasing God. It sure takes the pressure off! Like you, I never want to hurt anyone; especially family. But there are times when God gives us individual plans that don’t match others. And those that love us, will be there, no matter what. I’ve learned, and still do, so much from you. Even if there are days I don’t read (which I’m learning to set up my time now so I can do the things I enjoy), you are both in my heart and prayers. I’m glad I can encourage you as you do me, Mama K. I love you! 💕🙏🙏🙏🙏
LikeLiked by 1 person
Another school has arrived, and my thoughts and prayers reach out to children, school staff, and parents. Together, we can accomplish much in the coming months. Now retired from the classroom for five years, I will be thinking of my grandchildren in school along with two daughters who teach in public schools.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Teachers are under so much pressure to often take the parents place. There often required not only to educate, but inspire and encourage
LikeLike
Sorry I hit the send button before I was finished. Teachers also have to protect their students and provide a safe place for them. God bless these heroes of the classroom.
LikeLike
This year created a lot of adjustments for my son, where I babysat. The oldest is now a sophomore, so it was just new teachers and classes, but my granddaughter is starting middle school, riding by herself on the bus. And the third-grader (if he survives) is on the bus by himself. Three totally different personalities. But our son may be transferring. It seems the district administration is worried about a potential lawsuit from two years ago, when my son’s rights were violated. So there is a better job with half the commute available. A lot of change at the beginning of this school year,
LikeLiked by 1 person