In Like A Lion

 

The “in like a lion, out like a lamb” saying makes sense because March is typically when we see the transition between winter and spring. The weather can be wild and windy and less predictable when we begin the month and it usually calms down, warms up, and becomes more settled by the end. We can start to discard all of the warm protective gear that has kept us feeling safe and warm, and begin to enjoy the heat from the sun once again.

Going through transitions and change is much like experiencing the month of March. In the beginning we often experience a variety of strong emotions, and often feel like we have no control. Once we have passed through the change, we often find that we have learned a lot and can even feel stronger.

Here are a few transitions that might feel challenging to manage:

• Changing friendships or social groups
• Beginning school, or changing schools
• Transitioning to middle school
• Moving to a new home or city
• Welcoming a new sibling
• Parents’ separation or divorce
• Losing a loved one or pet

While we cannot affect how the month of March will go, there are a number of things we CAN DO when we experience change. One really helpful activity is called the Circle of Control. The circle of control is a tool that helps us think about what we can and can't control in our lives. It's a way of thinking that can help us focus on what we can change and let go of what we can't. 

What things can YOU control?

Whatever we are experiencing, it is ALWAYS important and helpful
to share our feelings with people we trust. If you are going through a
change, think about your thoughts and how your body feels. Try to name your feeling. Wonder about WHY you feel that way. Then think of ways you can move ahead. 

When we notice and share our feelings, we take back the power they have. It helps us to feel in control and calm.

Change can be scary, but change can also lead to new things. 

Change can help us to grow and feel even stronger than before.

Below are some videos you might find helpful!

Summer Transitions

 

August is summer. The sun shines and the days are warm and wonderful! August is also our transition month. It connects us to September, our bridge into autumn. 

August is a good time to think about how we manage our transitions back to school and work. Parent, teacher or student, we all need to be mindful to make decisions to be our best self! With that, I offer my take on Do's and Don'ts for our summer break.

Do

Do Enjoy Find something good in every day. Look around and be thankful for the things around you, no matter how small. I am always thankful for family, the warm sun and blue waters!

Do Travel 🌎 You don't have to go far. Not everyone boards a plane to find new adventures. LOOK around for new places and opportunities to try something new right in your own hometown. EAT new food, or LISTEN to new music.  READ! Reading can take anyone to new places and introduce us to interesting people. Your town library has so many wonderful places to take you if you just ask. 

Do Sleep 💤 Sleep is a critical part of our wellness. Even as your schedule opens up, remember to maintain healthy bedtime and morning routines. Sleep deprivation is a real health concern. Our bodies need sleep to ensure healthy brain function and to maintain our physical health. Check out recommended hours by age here.

Don't 

Don't think that being nervous, or worrying,  is for little kids and new situations. Do you worry when trying new things? Remind yourself that summer is the perfect time to get out of your zone and make mistakes too!  So, try your new bike. Learn a new craft. Cook something interesting.  Jump in and then bring your stories back to school with you.

Don't be afraid to be bored! Take time to enjoy the outside. Look at clouds. Draw. Breathe. We are all so used to being busy that we easily forget that sitting still is also good for us. 

Don't forget to read and write, it will keep your skills sharp! Keep a journal or 🔏 write your own book. Tell stories to your family and ask them to share theirs too. Your brain needs to be challenged so use puzzles and games to keep it growing all summer long.

Don't save school preparation tasks for the last week of vacation.  Do you have a summer assignment? Will you need new supplies? Waiting can be easy to do and some people find it fun to do all at once, but is that going to increase your excitement, or make you feel overwhelmed? Be smart and make a plan that works for you and your family.

Don't forget that exercise, healthy snacks and a water bottle are important every day! It is fun to try new foods and healthy to relax. Remember to eat well and get moving too! Limit screen time and get outside. Take advantage of the weather and your extra time with family and friends. Your brain and body will reward you.

If we are thoughtful, our transitions into summer and then back into school will be smooth and full of positivity.  While I always look forward to new beginnings,  I encourage everyone to

ENJOY every day! 

Be well and we'll see you soon 🧡

Resources:

Outdoor Scavenger Hunt

Summer Journal

42 Summer Activities for Kids

Back to School Books & Resources