As the summer of 2014 is coming to a close, most teens are back into the swing of classes, clubs, athletics, and various extra-curricular events. Many teens are excited to be back in their old routine. Returning to school is a time they get to see their friends, make new ones, and plunge into another great year. To others, the school year is not met with much excitement. This is especially true for the teen who struggles academically, who would rather be any place but in a classroom. While the new school year may be marked with anticipation, it may also be a time of apprehension and sadness.
Think about it… Many teens have had to say goodbye to dear friends, as they have either moved away or moved on (i.e., going to college or the military). Saying goodbye to friends is hard and creates a sense of sadness and loss. And what about that teen who has graduated to the next level of school; middle school or high school? This transition in and of itself can create anxiety and stress. Yes, the new school year can bring with it a whole host of emotions. But to teens, one thing is for certain, they've got to face the change all while saying farewell to the magic of summer.
Summer is a season for change. It can be a time of social growth and maturity. Without the burden of due dates, papers and projects, tests, and other academic pressures, teens get to explore who they are and how they fit into this world. They get to experiment with social situations, learn invaluable life lessons, practice what it means to be an adult (e.g., skills that they'll use in adulthood) and have more time for driving their parents insane!
We all have memories of summer's gone and past. Many great novels, blockbusters, and Billboard hits have been made about the magic of summer. The entertainment industry capitalizes on teen’s free time during the summer months. Yes, summer, a time for building relationships, sleeping in late, hanging out at the beach, pool or lake, attending camps (academic, athletic or adventure), and most importantly no homework, deadlines, projects, tests, or quizzes. Ahhh the bliss of pure freedom... Those were the days!
Summer is a time of fun, socialization, and family vacation. It's a great time for personal growth and social development - a time to experiment, try on new personas, and see the world through a different lens. Though short, summer holds some true treasures just waiting to be explored. What was one of your favorite summer memories? What did summer teach you? Were you one of those teens who couldn't wait to get back to the classroom or was it the last thing from your mind? Switch gears… What about your teen? What kind of memories will he/she will take with him/her from Summer 2014? Well, there's only one way to find out... Just ask.
Take the time to speak with your teen about his/her summer experiences. Ask about his/her favorite summer memory, what he's/she's going to miss most about summer, and how he/she feels about the school year. You may find that your teen's experience isn't all that different from your own. If your teen is struggling with the new school year, help him/her find a way to work through uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. How do you do that? You can begin by listening. It is okay if you can't fix all problems or even take away fears, sometimes just having someone who cares is all our teen really needs. Also ask if there's something that you can do to make the transition a smooth one.
The end of summer brings with it closure and a time for change. As life gets back into a normal routine, don't forget to slow down to bid summer a fond farewell. For as we all know, once you're finished with school and are no longer on an academic calendar, summer loses some of its magic. Help your teen learn from and cherish the true treasures of summer experiences.
As a counselor, I am always amazed at the growth that happens to teens during those two short months. When they return to school, I walk down the hall in awe of the maturity and growth that summer has brought. But I know, I too, was once affected by summer's magic. Yes, summer has a magical quality about it. It's a season of change and growth and it marks the beginning of another school year. So, until we meet again in 2015, "Goodbye Summer 2014."
On a personal note, it's been over four years since I began blogging for Psychology Today. Each blog challenges me to reach deeper and farther than before. I started this venture with one simple thing in mind "To help people transform their lives from the inside out." That very statement has become my mission statement. My goal is simple to help educate about current trends, emotions and problems facing today's teens.
So in celebration of my four year anniversary, I am continuing to say goodbye to that special time of year; Summer. The calendar officially marks September 21 as the final day of Summer. Hopefully, you’ll take some time and reflect on what your summer held. For soon a new season of life will begin. I look forward to continuing to bring you relevant and helpful information on parenting and top issues facing today’s teens. Thank you to all of my readers for your continued support. I hope that Summer 2014 brought you something magically special.