Last day of School - Emotional toolkit

The curtain falls on yet another academic year - a bittersweet mix of endings and new beginnings. 🎓🗓️

Change may initially provoke anxiety; however, with guidance, children can learn to navigate these emotions, fostering their ability to handle change and fostering emotional intelligence.

So, how can we help our children, and ourselves, navigate these transitions smoothly? Here are some expert tips from The Rocket House:

1. Celebrate Achievements 🏆: Mark the end of the year with a special tradition - perhaps a family meal, class picnic or outing. Reflect on milestones reached and lessons learned.

2. Memory Lane 🖼️: Create a scrapbook (maybe digital?) or memory box filled with mementos from the year. It’s a tangible way to recall happy times and major accomplishments.

3. Prep for the Next Chapter 📚: Start early conversations about the upcoming school year to alleviate any potential anxiety. Listen and validate feelings. You could use a ‘worry box’ to help talking about feelings as they feed them into the worry box. Schedule visits to the new class or school if possible, introducing them to the new environment. Discuss new subjects they’ll be learning, and some events to look forward to. It can also be helpful to connect with future classmates over the summer, if possible, to build comfort and familiarity.

4. Self-care for Parents 💆‍♀️: It’s okay to feel sentimental. Share your feelings with friends or write in a journal. Remember, it’s a sign of your deep love and commitment.

5. Family Summer Plans ☀️: Whether you’re jet-setting or enjoying a staycation, devise a summer bucket list filled with simple fun family activities. This could include movie nights, garden games, picnic lunches, local day trips, or learning a new hobby together. It helps shift the focus from school closure to a season of family bonding and joy.