auDHD Thriving

The kids cannot wait to go back to school. I am so happy to hear their excitement and anticipation, especially after the string of hard years we have had.

I am not as enthusiastic. Listen, I LOVE school. I value education. My parents were educators. My grandparents were teachers. My father in law is an educator. I worked in education for almost 20 years. Learning is one of my favorite ways to have fun.

The problem is less about my experience as a student and more about my experience as a parent. As I said, the past few years have been challenging. I never imagined I would have to work so hard to convince an educator that a child’s behavior isn’t malicious; they needed our help. I never would have thought I would be researching so much science and child development topics in order to have a professional entertain that I needed their expertise. Yet, here we are.

I am doing my best to remember this is a new school year, a fresh start. We have been so lucky to work with brilliant teachers and staff. I also understand that there are committed professionals who are doing their best within a system that works against most, if not all, the people in it.

So, instead of organizing school supplies and back to school things, I have brushed off the binders for each child. I am reviewing education law. I am remembering every amazing educator, staff member, and professional that has blessed us. I am doing what I need to do to treat others with dignity and respect, especially when that is not reciprocated.