Here we are trying to squeeze that last drop from summer, when retailers all around us have store fronts full of Back to School items! Our mail boxes are brimming with flyers all boasting sales geared towards young ones soon to venture into the school system, along with radio, and TV announcing it’s that time of year stuff. (Oh how we rush our lives away! Why is it that we can’t simply enjoy the rest of our summertime moments without such hype?)
Oh, How Times Have Changed!
For many of us though, how the times have changed! Instead of buying that special first day of school outfit or stocking our shopping carts with cartoon themed pencil cases, back packs and lunch buckets, we are faced with a preview of an up-and-coming empty nesting reality as our children venture into places of higher education--colleges and universities.
There are some very hands on parents who guide their children physically through the doorways of these learning institutions, moving belongings into residence buildings or merely accompanying them to career counseling sessions or to special orientations designed to help the families feel at ease.
For me personally, it didn’t quite work out that way. I was fully prepared to attend one such information session and help my son organize his various college requirements when he politely yet firmly declined. This isn’t exactly how I had imagined that would happen.
We were discussing some of the areas that should be handled, class schedules, books, parking permits, lockers and the like. My son said “Mom, you tell me I have to learn to become more independent.” Absolutely this is true, for I have said that to him many times. “Well, do you really think it is a good idea for me to show up at college with...my m-o-t-h-e-r?”
Gulping, I stopped myself from over-reacting or feigning a guilt trip to hide the simple bitter sweet reality of the moment. It was a toss up between feeling pride at his declaration of independence, and yet at the same time experiencing a twinge in my chest. Finally I responded. “Why yes of course you should do whatever you can on your own” and added “I will help you with whatever you want me to.”
Mind you, of course he didn’t have all his financial resources in place yet, so he was sent off with a blank cheque in one hand and some cash in the other. As he pulled out of the driveway-- in his own vehicle-- I swallowed hard. For me it was not unlike the first day I remembered putting him on a school bus. This time I didn’t cry, but felt like it none the same.
Getting-On-The-Back-To-School-Track
As quickly as they arrived, the “dog days of summer” have bolted and hot on their heels are back-to-school-shopping-frenzies, getting the kids back on track and packing lunches. Yes, it’s time for ringing school bells and racing around like a chicken with its head cut off! For some parents, there’s a huge sigh of relief, while others will actually miss having the kids at home and the summertime change in schedule. With financial costs, time crunches and extracurricular activities about to follow, this time of the year can be an overwhelming adjustment.
Whether your student is in public or Catholic school, grade or high school, this will help determine what tasks you must carry out when it comes to getting them back into the classroom. With the bombardment of current marketing strategies aimed at children and teenagers, it can be a real battle of wills trying to avoid buying all that’s trendy; from supplies to clothing, there’ll always be a huge gap based on who’s choosing…the parent or the child.
Typically these days, grade school students receive a list with their end-of-the-year report card as to what essentials they’ll need when returning in the fall. As for school clothing, uniforms make this decision a snap but for those without, it’s essential for parents to know their school’s Dress Code. It’s also wise to consider that what your child will conform to and wear in grade school may not necessarily apply once they hit the freedom of high school.
Depending on your school and grade, the following lists may be helpful in making the “back-to-school-transition” easier for all and can be printed out to save you the task.
Grade school juniors:
- pencils/pencil crayons - pencil case/box - eraser - scissors - ruler - glue stick/bottled glue - lunch bag/box - back pack
In addition to for grade school seniors and high school:
- pens - hi-liters - Scientific calculator - Geometry set - binders - duo-tangs - lined paper
Other costs to consider:
- student agendas - uniforms or “crested” school clothing - atleast 1 new outfit (if feasible) that conforms to your school’s Dress Code keeping in mind that often, summer clothing can be worn for the first few weeks after school starts- running shoes and dress shoes - student/class pictures - student cards - fees for high school course supplies
Habits for “getting-back-on-track”:
Shop for school items a few at a time throughout the summer if possible. Two weeks prior to school starting, send younger children to bed earlier each night and wake earlier each morning by 30 minutes. "Refresh” young minds with a review of the alphabet, numbers and basic Math/English concepts. Encourage breakfast…but if you can’t get them to eat it, especially teenagers, consider alternatives such as instant breakfast drinks or at the very least, a glass of juice, toast and a multi-vitamin. Pack a healthy lunch for grade school children and provide a lunch allowance for those in high school remembering to ask periodically what they’ve spent it on. "Time computer usage” and know what sites your kids are visiting. Designate Fridays for weekend homework which ensure some “school-free” time and avoid the “Sunday night homework hassle”. Limit extracurricular activities to one per child for some concentrated effort on the activity, to avoid interference with anything related to school and to avoid wasting your money if they find “it isn’t their thing”. Substitute physical activity for time spent in front of televisions and . Taking part in community service as a requirement of graduating high school or not, is a sound way of giving back to the community and becoming a great citizen. Not only will teen employment ease your finances but it will offer a sense of independence for them to get all those trendy items that you refuse to buy .
So…now that the school year schedule has snuck up on you once again and you’re broke with no free time in sight until at least next summer (one can only hope)...rest assured…the day will arrive when you’re rewarded (in your own mind) by the fact that you made a conscience effort to get your kids on the back-to-school-track!
Rev-up After 40
If your young adults are heading off to college and/or university this September, you could be left feeling the void of empty nesting. Instead of focusing on what is missing in your usual family routine, why, not introduced some new changes just for yourself?
For 20 years plus you have raised a family and met their needs and wants. Now that you’re 40+ the time is now to begin a focused journey toward becoming a happier, healthier individual.Over the years our bodies have changed from our hips and thighs and buttocks to many other areas. You may even notice that your having trouble getting up out of bed. Have you ever awakened in the morning with muscle stiffness and joint pain? This robs us from feeling energized after a good night of sleep, and is not just a sign of aging, but also that our bodies need a tune up!
Ponder for a moment about your car. After thousands of kilometers of service, you can't neglect your vehicle. It requires regular oil changes, transmission level checks, spark plugs replacement, wires, belts and brake maintenance just to name a few. You must realize that your body requires the same attention. Without these tune ups an engine has to work twice as hard as does your heart which pumps blood and oxygen to keep you energized throughout your daily activities.
There are 1,2,3 easy steps to help you get on the road to health:
1. Eat healthy, balance meals throughout each day include, fruits, vegetables and grains, proteins--fuel up right!
2. Drink plenty of water for your body's hydration--afterall, you lubricate your car.
3. Exercise includes aerobics, lifting weights and stretching regime. Regular physical activity gives you energy and drive.
It’s imperative that you combine the 1,2,3 components to get the full effects. Perform a circle check on your body as you would your vehicle to ensure optimum performance, and always consult your physician as you would a mechanic.
