The big countdown to the end of classes has begun! Only a few days left before the summer vacation but also, before saying goodbye to the teacher and friends. How can we help our child through this transition?
For my part, I remember very well the crisis of tears after hearing the bell at 3:15 p.m., the one announcing the end of the day but above all, the last bell of the school year de all my primary. Not that I was stressed about starting high school a few months later, no. But rather because I was sad to leave this school where I had grown, played, learned for seven years. It was the first time in my life that I realized that this life was passing quickly.
Well, I know, I'm very sensitive. Like your child, perhaps? Many are excited about vacation, whether they're going on a trip, camp, or staying home not going to school. 'school. The days are longer, the sun is good, swimming, Mister Freezes, bike rides… All memories that we, as adults, cherish.
One step
But formany, it's a kind of mourning, to know that the school year that has just passed is well and truly over and that, never again will they have exactly this same group, this same class, this same dynamic, this same teacher.
It is therefore important to highlight this transition with our child, if he feels the need, of course. This can be done with a small party (a BBQ, a special dinner, etc.) to recognize the efforts made this year by our child. You can also do a nice activity, like a game of mini-putt, a picnic in the park, an ice cream tasting (hmmm!). This allows for a "rite of passage", which we have very little in Quebec. Why not create it ourselves, this rite (and no, it is not necessary to spend money to do this)?
The Present Moment
For young people who anticipate more, they may be afraid of not loving their teacher next year as much as they had this year, of not being in the same class as their friends, of not seeing enough of their friends this summer and thus weakening their ties, lark.
It will then be important to help our child live in the present moment, also by emphasizing the end of the school year in a festive and pleasant way. If he feels the need, we can have a discussion with him about his fears and try to reframe his perceptions or even help him to accept the unknown (we don't know any more than he does if his friend Samuel will be in the same class, or if hewill have Madame Christiane rather than Madame Janie).
This summer, have fun! As a family, as a couple, in solo. Take the time to take the time. Have fun, rest, don't feel guilty watching a good series even if the weather is nice outside that day. It's YOUR vacation and you do what you want with it – and above all, you give yourself the right to meet your needs.
Come on, have a nice summer!
