The Kids Are Alright: Comforting Thoughts for Parents Sending Kids to School

September has arrived and, like the first bell of the school day, a new school year is now upon us. With it comes the excitement and apprehension that comes from sending our little loved ones off into the world.

As parents, we are filled with an anxiety that can only come from handing over our kids to complete strangers in a completely strange world.

As difficult as it seems, I find that the best way to handle the uncertainty of sending our children off into the world is to keep in mind the big picture.

When they go to school, our children are encountering the people and ideas that will help shape their future. Every skill our kids learn from their teachers and their peers will help them in the long run, and will equip them with the tools necessary for future success.

Keep in mind that it often takes a village to raise a child. I take much comfort in knowing that our children’s school environment is filled with those who are often as committed to the village as we are.

The uneasy feelings we experience as parents during this time of year remind us of the special and enduring nature of the relationship between parent and child. The bond we share is unique, and is meant to survive time spent apart.

Our young ones might spend countless hours with other adults and children throughout the school year, but they will always be ours.

They might learn valuable information and life lessons from unknown teachers, but they will always carry with them the core values that we have instilled in them.

They might spend numerous hours in strange classrooms and crowded buses, but they will always return home to us.

Knowing this makes our kids’ departure for the new school year a much more pleasant experience.

Good luck to you and your kids this school year!