“Things are going to be different this school year!
We’re going to __________________________________.”
How would you fill in the blank? What do you really want for your child this school year? Better grades, more friends, less homework hassles? Being more organized, less stressed? More peaceful and productive? How so – what will that look like exactly?
How do you define success for each of your kids? How do they?
To find out, schedule a breakfast or lunch meeting with each of your children this week. Take each kiddo out for a fun meal or make one at home. While enjoying your meal together, discuss what the top priorities might be, and why.
Brainstorm and make a list together, consciously considering why and how each item would make the list. Be specific and realistic about your expectations. And respectfully listen to your child’s thoughts and feelings as well. This is a great opportunity to show compassionate understanding with your child, before everyone is fully back running on the treadmill of life.
Be mindful of having an honest and open dialogue with your child. No monologues or lectures. Discuss both hopes and fears. Help your child accept his/her strengths and areas of difficulty – recognizing that we all have both.
Select no more than 3 of the most important ones, based on your values and principles, as well as your child’s needs and well-being. Agree to focus on these 3 goals every day in a positive way. What types of affirmations or words of encouragement could you offer your child each morning that will grow these target goals into healthy habits?
Keep track of progress with a simple chart or journal, observing what’s working and what’s not. Meet weekly with your child (fun meal or snacks date again!) to review progress. Join each other again in conscious, compassionate problem-solving for how to take the next step towards realizing those goals.
And above all, enjoy the journey. You won’t pass this way again.
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