Time Is Not Waiting On Anyone.

Written By: Felecia Causey

Photography By: Felecia Causey

Model: Kyson Cottrell

Where do the years go? You can be holding them in your arms one moment and getting them ready for school the next. You're happy that the child you gave birth to is growing up. You're worried because they'll be meeting a lot of new individuals in a new setting. Then you start to feel nervous because you and your tiny human are about to embark on a new chapter in your life. I really understand the feelings, having cried the first day of kindergarten for both of my children.

 

I'm getting anxious because my youngest will be starting his senior year of high school. Parents should cherish these moments by taking pictures, creating memories, supporting their children, attending events, and letting them engage in extracurricular activities. Time passes quickly.

 

Attend the events; don't forget that your presence matters, whether it's a small party, award ceremony, or fun day at school. There have been many occasions when I didn't feel like it mentally, but I mustered the willpower to be there. 

 

Get ready to put in the work. Teamwork, in my opinion, makes the dream possible. Make sure you make an effort to interact and communicate well with the teacher. It begins at home, where you instill good manners, kindness toward others, and hard work.

 

You are your children's biggest fans, Mom and Dad. Encourage them at all times and give them your support. Speak positivity into your child's life.

When kids interact with kids from different backgrounds, they often pick up new habits—both positive and negative. When inappropriate behavior arises, act immediately and firmly to correct it.

 It doesn't matter if this is your first or last child starting school; you will still feel the same emotions.

Before your children leave, say a prayer for them, give them encouraging words each day, and give them a hug when they get home. Even though a lot of our children don't tell us everything, please make sure you keep the lines of communication open so they may share both positive and negative experiences. Make sure your children know about bullies, both adults and children. Teach your kids not to bully others and that they might come across someone who does not look like them. Remind them to always be kind.

 

Let's work hard and approach the new year with a positive mindset, parents.

You got this!