Parenting Tips

Every summer, about two weeks before the beginning of school, my phone lights up at an alarming rate. With staggered start dates around the country, the concerns about back-to-school anxiety come in waves and continue through most of the fall. Good news: you’re not alone.

It takes practice to learn how to be a good friend ― practice at being kind, supportive, trustworthy, and a good listener. For a four-year-old, a friend may be a regular playmate or a child they just met at the park. At this age, they can engage in cooperative play, but they are still developing the ability to understand other perspectives. They may assume that their friends think the same way they do ― and can get upset when a friend wants to play a different way. They may also need help introducing themselves or welcoming others into their social circle.

The re-opening of some childcare centers and schools has parents both ecstatic and anxious. Most parents I speak to are desperate for their children to be back with their friends, playing and learning. Not to mention the need for some relief from the impossible task of trying to work from home while caring for young kids. It’s hard — and everyone needs a break.

As a working mom of a kindergartener and toddler, I’m often reminded of my experiences as a teacher in the South Bronx. Sometimes it’s a memory spurred by my daughter reaching a new milestone or overcoming a challenge. Recently, that’s happened a lot as she’s going through the beautiful, but lengthy process of learning to read.

Education is a team effort. You and your child's teacher can work together to support your child's learning success.

As our children’s social worlds begin to expand and return to a new normal after so many unknowns, parents are wondering how to best prepare young kids to make friends outside the home. And to be honest, it can feel overwhelming for both kids and grown-ups. My son often reminds me of something when we’re working through big feelings and life transitions: “Well, you never lived through a pandemic as a kid!” And he’s right!

At age six, as kids develop stronger and more stable friendships, social conflict among friends is inevitable.