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Kids often struggle with transitions and going to school is one of the most common.
Because they are having to shift modes and mindsets AND separate from us, the process of feeling willing to go and get ready can be emotional some days.
In my house Mondays are markedly the hardest.
Remember to hold the boundary, make sure there isn't an underlying need to be addressed, offer comfort and then ride the wave of emotion until the calm settles and you can get moving.
If you don't have enough time, you may have to make compromises (yes you can wear the dirty shirt, or eat cereal in the car etc) ,but stay compassionate even if you have to push to get to the next phase.
In this video, Dr. Laura Markham shares practical tips on how to help kids and parents manage boredom by staying in a place of compassionate teaching, which involves expressing empathy, helping kids notice body sensations, developing the habit of seeing boredom as an unidentified need state, being patient, and teaching kids to discover their own options without collapsing into despair.
Learn how to handle the endless "why" questions from your child by turning it into a time of imagination, allowing them to wonder and theorize about things, rather than just providing an answer, which can foster a sense of connection and curiosity.
Learn how to keep your children safe and empowered against sexual abuse and trauma by watching this powerful video on the importance of having "the talk" with anyone who watches your children, and how it can serve as a warning to predators and empower your children to have the language and tools to prevent and heal from such abuse.