Article: “The First Day of School’s Profound Impact On Parents”
by Meredith August 20, 2012
Everywhere you look kids and parents are talking about the first day of school. We all know the first day can be scary and new for children, but it’s also a huge transition for parents as well. How do you deal with all the conflicting emotions?
One of the best ways to deal with this difficult transition is to acknowledge the conflicting feelings, says author Janice D’Arcy. This 2011 from the Washington Post explores the fear, guilt, and sadness parents experience on the first day of Kindergarten, middle school, even college:
“She was born at six pounds, 11 ounces. My husband and I placed her down in the middle of our bed and stared in awe at that tiny body. For four-and-a-half years, that baby has grown and plumped, stretched and strengthened, and now it’s time to carry her behind an intimidating metal door and into school.
Real school, not that half-day play group we’ve been dressing up in her mind as school. This is a school made of brick and linoleum, lasting from hectic morning to cranky afternoon, stealing from me the glorious, energetic, inquisitive hours in between. For the rest of her childhood. How could I not be in tears?”
To continue reading the article, click here.
What are the emotions you’re felling on this first day of school? Tell us below!
