Coming Back from Breaks

Anytime we return to school after an extended break - winter break, spring break, even the occasional 4-day weekend - it can be tough for students to find their footing, maintain positive momentum from their time away, and create a sense of consistency. 

This is always especially true after winter break, which can sometimes last up to two weeks. With a nice stretch away from the 'grind,' most of us are usually able to unwind, catch up on sleep, relieve a little stress, and find enjoyment in activities outside of school. For many students, there can be much apprehension around returning to the day-to-day business of school, and they can quickly feel overwhelmed like they're back on the hamster wheel.

In my mind, there are a couple of important things students/parents/families can do to help ease these transitions. 

*First, be intentional about how you use your time. One of the most practical pieces of advice I received from experienced Principals, Superintendents, etc. during my Admin program was this: "run your schedule or your schedule will run you." While that made a ton of sense within that context at the time (and still does), I feel it applies to all of us in our everyday lives. It is so vitally important to be "in charge" of your time, as it is one of our most valuable commodities!

• carve out time every day for activities/hobbies/etc. that bring you joy! Maybe this is something you started over a break or it's a lifelong enjoyment...either way, make time for it. Even 30 minutes per day goes a long way.
• write down your commitments --> assignments, practices/games, weekend plans, etc. Seeing everything in front of you can help greatly with managing time.
• ask for help or guidance whenever you're feeling overwhelmed or just need a helpful hand with time management...parents, teachers, coaches can all be great resources. The good news about just any adult you ask is that they've been through it before!

 *Make a point to exercise your mind, spirit and body on a consistent basis.

• read for your own enjoyment 20-30 minutes a day. Not a big reader? Try shorter articles, the sports page, a magazine suiting your interests, etc. Read a wide variety of topics and genres if you can.
• pursue your interests and passions! This goes with the point above, but can even go beyond...look to join a club, do some research, find a cool documentary.
• plan to get yourself outside to play, get exercise, and be active a few times a week! Fresh air, vitamin D, exploring, creating games with friends...all of these have great benefits to our physical and mental health! If you're in middle school or high school and don't have recess anymore and/or only have gym class every other day, this is even more crucial. 
• make and build connections with people...help a parent around the house with some chores and talk while you're doing that. Write a letter to an extended family member who lives in a different state. If you have younger neighbors and you see them outside playing, help them build a snowman!

Bottom line...coming back to the daily grind of school can be tough, especially after a nice, long relaxing break! Be intentional with your time, value your time, and make time for yourself and the things you love to do. Create and maintain a healthy balance in your life and you'll have the outlets needed when things get stressful.