Hey, fellow educators and parents! It's time to take a breather because although it's only Day 2, I am already feeling exhausted! It's not that I've done a ton. But the change of schedule, the demands of being "on" constantly, and the road back into routines take its toll. If this is true for me as a 52-year-old adult, how much more exhausting it is for our children, especially our neurodivergent ones!
We cannot and must not lose sight of our passionate mission to support our incredible kids, especially those who may find the journey a bit more challenging due to being exceptionally wired (neurodivergent). Change in routine, loud spaces, itchy uniforms, lack of sleep, missing home, and so much more can make these days draining and sometimes downright unbearable.
So, what can we do in these first few weeks to help our children gain the daily stamina they need to thrive throughout a long school year?
Let's delve into 5 strategies to empower and uplift our neurodivergent learners, giving them the tools they need to thrive in the bustling environment of a school year.
Teach Them How to Self-Care
One of the most crucial lessons we can impart goes beyond academics – the significance of self-care. In the whirlwind of daily lessons, assignments, emotional ups and downs, friend drama, and other interactions, it's easy for our students to neglect their well-being.
Looking for some extra guidance and encouragement?
We've Got You Covered!
Explore our Family Coaching Services, starting at $150!
Or get a free coaching call by clicking the "BOOK NOW" button above 👆👆👆
Encourage them to take moments for themselves, practice mindfulness, and cultivate habits that nurture their mental and emotional health. Teach them by not only telling them but also modeling for them the importance of fueling and hydrating their bodies and getting enough "screenless" sleep.
Instead of coming straight home and doing homework, spend some time together unwinding and making home feel like a relief and not another classroom. Make time for quiet and chill time, such as snuggling, reading a story, or, if your children are older, talking to them about their day or watching your favorite show together.
By instilling the value of self-care early on, we equip our neurodivergent students with a powerful tool to navigate the challenges that may come their way. And honestly, we need it, too.
2. Value the Majors and Let Go of the Minors
As grown-ups, we often get caught up in the minutiae of our daily lives, forgetting the essence of what's truly important and what really isn't. The same is true at school. What if I don't get into the right friend group? What if the teacher thinks I don't care about what they're saying? What if I fail the assignment?
Let's shift our focus to valuing the majors – the moments of growth, understanding, and progress. Let's focus on strong character, standing up for our convictions and for others, and enjoying the journey.
This approach can be transformative for our neurodivergent students. By celebrating their unique strengths and accomplishments, we create an environment where every step forward is acknowledged and cherished. We view the the minor setbacks as growth opportunities, and we focus on the things that truly matter and will last a lifetime - leading toward knowledge and personal development.
3. Progress, Not Perfection
In a world that often demands perfection, let's remind our students, especially the neurodivergent ones, that progress is the true measure of success. Every small victory, every lesson learned, and every obstacle overcome is a testament to their growth and resilience.
Plato is credited as saying, "I am the wisest man alive, for I know one thing, and that is that I know nothing. Never discourage anyone... who continually makes progress, no matter how slow."
Encourage a growth mindset that values effort, perseverance, and improvement over flawless outcomes. By embracing progress over perfection, we create a supportive environment where our students can flourish and reach their full potential.
4. Be Yourself
In Wonder by R.J. Palacio, Via says, "You can't blend in when you were born to stand out."
Amidst the pressures of conformity and fitting in, it's essential to remind our neurodivergent students to embrace their uniqueness.
No one is "normal." No one has it all together. Everyone has strengths, stretches (areas of growth), struggles, and successes. We are more than our performance, what people think about us, or how many times we get the right or wrong answers.
Encourage them to authenticate themselves and express their thoughts, ideas, and passions without fear of judgment. By fostering a culture of acceptance and diversity, we empower our students to shine brightly as the individuals they are. It's time to celebrate their quirks, talents, and perspectives, creating a space where everyone is valued for who they are.
5. Make Connections
In the hustle and bustle of the school year, it's easy to lose sight of the human connections that make the journey worthwhile. Encourage our neurodivergent students to reach out, build relationships, and form bonds with their peers and teachers.
Connection is a powerful force that fosters a sense of belonging, support, and community. By nurturing these connections, we create a network of care and understanding that uplifts and empowers our students throughout their academic journey.
Our Turn to Help Them Build Daily Stamina for the Long School Year
And there we have it, friends! Let's embark on this school year journey with renewed energy, compassion, and enthusiasm. By teaching self-care, valuing major achievements, focusing on progress, encouraging authenticity, and fostering connections, we can create an environment where all our students can thrive and shine brightly.
So take a deep breath, gather your daily stamina, and let's embark on this long school year journey together, supporting each other and our amazing students every step of the way.
Here's to an empowering and enriching academic year ahead!
Remember, every day is a chance to make a positive difference in the lives of our students.
Let's do this!
How do you encourage daily stamina in yourself and your children?
Practice Daily Self-Care
Focus on the majors, not the minors
Celebrate progress over performance
Model how to be yourself
Comments