The homestretch
There’s a lot going on at end of the school year:
Spring fever diverts energy, everyone’s getting excited for summer.
Although standardized testing is pretty much over, teachers are now stressed about “covering” the remaining content for the year. There is often a lot of top-down pressure making it worse.
Students who are in the swimming-up-stream cycle are burnt out, resistant, fading.
Parents are scrambling to help their kids pull it together as the red flags pop up, often too late.
A few things or parents and educators to keep in mind during the homestretch:
- Notice every single good thing your students do and tell them about it (this definitely goes for college students too). Try the 3:1 rule: at least 3 compliments to every 1 “negative”.
- Empathy, compassion and understanding are key. The overwhelm is intense for kids.
- Summer will be here soon. Take it a day at a time.
- Don’t get too caught up on higher scores before the end. Chances are students have had enough pressure already. It’s not about grades, it’s about engaged learning. Focus curiosity around that. Ask: How important is it in the grand scheme of things?
- Teachers have typically been overworked, underpaid, under-appreciated, as they devoted the last 9 months serving kids. Show gratitude when you can.
- Have FUN with your kids. These relationships are sacred and precious. Foster lots of joy.
- Finally don’t take things too seriously. Life is short so keep focus on the most important things, quality time connecting with the people in your life. Be 100% present whenever you can, build it into your routine.