For many families, May not only means the end of another school year and the start of a well-earned summer break. It may also be a graduation year and time to prepare our child (and ourselves) for upcoming life changes. Our family has two graduation ceremonies to attend this month. Our 12-year-old Grace will graduate from sixth grade and make her way to junior high school, and our 22-year-old, Anna, is graduating from Auburn University and planning to get her Master’s degree beginning in the fall. Jason and I are so proud of both our girls and excited to see what the next phases of life will bring for each of them.
Sending a child off to college brings with it a mixed bag of emotions. We know we will miss our kids terribly, but we are also ready to watch them soar into their independence and the future that awaits them. Something that can ease a parent’s mind about their child leaving the nest is feeling that they are well prepared for what’s ahead. In Grade Ready: Getting Your Kids Ready for College, Tanni Haas shares expert advice for preparing your graduate for the academic and social challenges of college, including tips on managing stress, budgeting expenses, and identifying support services. The more prepared they are, the easier the transition will be for them and the less worried you will be.
May also means the anticipation of summer fun! In this month’s issue, we’ve included our 2023 Summer Fun Guide, where you’ll find local activities and sports clinics your child can attend, plus day trips the whole family will enjoy. And if you are already trying to think of ideas to ward off the famous “I’m bored,” check out Pam Molnar’s article, A Routine of Summer Fun.” She details 25 days of adventure, water fun, fitness, science, and creativity, so grab a calendar for the fridge and help your kids fill it in with all these great ideas!
Undoubtedly, May will be a busy month putting the finishing touches on the school year and spring sports while attending end-of-year programs and graduation teas. So hang in there and finish strong! Finally, Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms! Let May 14 be a day you spend doing exactly what will fill your tank. Whether you hang out with your kids or take off for a spa day alone or with a friend, I hope you feel celebrated and honored!
