Anytime Traditions

As a new school year fast approaches, I find the memories of dozens of "first days" glinting behind the hustle and bustle of shopping, open houses, and paperwork that precede that opening bell. I recently saw a television spot where the kids are gathered around the schoolhouse doors, counting down to the morning bell like revelers in Times Square on New Year's Eve. "Three...two...one...Happy School Year!" they cry, and rush into the building amidst cheering and excited laughter. What a happy little fiction they have shown to us!

In reality, your First Day of School may bear absolutely no resemblance whatsoever to the vignette I've described. In fact, many times anxiety, fear, and even tears show up during the course of this often stress-filled and highly emotional day. And I'm not just talking about the kids! I'll admit it, I cried the first time my baby climbed those school bus steps by herself. And the second. But soon, we developed a routine, complete with our own little tender rituals of hugs and kisses that helped ease the anxiety of separation.

Out of such small moments are strong family traditions created. Traditions can help us through some of the most intense emotional experiences of our lives. They help us come together, strengthening the bonds between family members while creating poignant memories that become the rich texture of the fabric of our lives.

One tradition that I have cultivated over the years is the First Day of School photo. I have made an effort to take a picture of each child, dressed to impress, backpack on, just before they head out the door on that very first morning. They like to set these photos side by side and watch themselves as they've grown from timid preschooler to confident middle graders. I think they find a certain reassurance in this simple custom, a continuity that helps them face the relative unknown with the quiet confidence that they've done this before, and therefore they can absolutely do it again.

If you'd like to share your family traditions for the First Day of School (or other school-related traditions) please do so! We'd love to hear from you!