The after school hours

Everyone’s family and after school hours look differently. Often, in anticipation of this time, parents can begin to feel the anxiety and stress of one or more of the following: the pick up line, the transition home, the decompression period, the dinner hour, homework completion and bedtime rituals. And with multiple children in the home, things can become more chaotic quickly. Just for today, when waiting in the after school pick up line, consider:

1) Our state, as the parent, and our nervous systems – are we regulated ourselves?
2) How do we greet our kids after picking them up? Are we gently matching their energy or are we peppering them with questions (and joining in with their dysregulation)?
3) With differing sensory systems, do we turn on activating music with a beat for one child, but perhaps noise cancelling headphones for our sensory avoiders?
4) Snacks and hydration. Our children and teens are often hungry and dehydrated when we pick them up. Provide plenty of this at home or even on the car ride back.
5) Finally, as parents, we set the tone for the atmosphere of the transition home. Look and see what ways help you stay regulated as you go through the late afternoon and evening – this is very personal and can look different for everyone. Most of all, a consistent routine can create a sense of felt safety for the entire family.