I feel like summer break lasted 4 weeks and then back to school we went. My son is now in fifth grade, and my daughter is in fourth! Back to school for the kids also means back to school (work) for me – bummer. Okay, well it feels good to be back to a routine and getting out of the house more also helps with all of our mental health too. My kids were so bored this summer, like way more than they ever have been over the summer. If we were not doing something at every moment, then my son was complaining and not sure what to do. He has severe ADHD and struggles with finding ways to occupy himself, which I do understand that it has to be hard for him when his brain refuses to shut off. My daughter has autism and she is struggling with learning how to name her emotions and deal with them without yelling, crying, or running to her room. We seem to take 3 steps forward and 2 steps back with any progress we make, but at least we keep trying.
So as much as I loved the time with them, I (like many other moms) am happy that school is back. I work in special education with K-2 students, so I am getting back into the swing of dealing with big emotions, chasing after elopers, and blocking myself from being hit, bit, kicked, and licked. My partner, Kam, always says they could never do what I do, but I love it so so much because all of the bad is worth seeing their smiles when they finally understand or overcome something.
I ended up subbing in my kids school earlier this week, which I have only done once before since I do not normally work with 3-5 students. I explained to both of them that I was not sure if they would see me throughout the day, but that I would drive them home instead of them riding the bus. I tried to talk with my daughter about expectations for being patient and understanding if she did not get to see me in the building because I was working with other kids that struggled with some of the same things as she does. Of course, I did not expect it to go perfectly, but I also did not expect to have her aide come pull me out of the room I was working in 2 hours into the school day to have me talk with my daughter for unexpected behavior. She had been yelling about going to see me and ended up trying to elope when she was told no too many times. Luckily, she ended up having an incredible day after that.
I am truly hoping that we all become better versions of ourselves and continue to progress and enjoy life, even though the unexpected and frustrating moments. I hope you all get the same out of this school year as well!
-Skye
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