Parkland Mayor Rich Walker.
A Message from Mayor Rich Walker
It’s about that time, when we start winding up for the rhythm of a new school year. But, before you brace yourselves for the early morning bus routes, speedy breakfasts, and carlines, think about the simple things that brought you joy over the summer, and incorporate a few of them into your new back-to-school routine.
If you picked up a new workout routine, keep it – find another pocket of time to do what you need to stay healthy and fit. And, if you started a book – whether you read it or listened to it – finish it. You deserve to find out what happens.
Once you get back to school, even the weekends will be packed with rehearsals, practices, and social events. But right now, you are at an advantage. Before the routine truly shifts, you still know what it feels like to indulge – and indulging has its place.
Think about how this can help your kids, too. It is easy to model being too busy, stressed out, and overbooked. Teaching kids how to relax, however, is at times a little more difficult. One way is to start off the year by telling your kids, “Just be who you really are.” They don’t always ask us for advice about their social lives, but if they hear it from you, it might resonate with them, even if they do not respond right away.
Speaking of social lives, image and comfort level are a big deal for school-age kids. And as we get closer to the start of school, consider helping your child and other family members adopt a mindset that will help to ease the stress and discomfort kids may feel around this time.
A few tips?
- Get in touch with a friend before school starts, so that you have a point of connection.
- Eat a healthier diet.
- Start going to sleep at a time that allows you to be well-rested for the school day.
- Establish a study space at home.
- If you aren’t using an alarm to wake up, consider using one now.
Whether you are reading this before or after school starts, you have time to change your mindset and learn to retain what keeps you afloat and balanced. If something is working for you and your family now, don’t let it fall by the wayside just because school is back in session. Use your summer playbook to enhance your fall game.
If you would like to share your thoughts or if you have questions or comments you would like to share, I would love to hear from you. I can be reached via e-mail at rwalker@cityofparkland.org or via cell phone at (973) 390-1453. I am frequently available monthly at Parkland businesses and love to talk with residents there. I encourage you to visit the City’s website cityofparkland.org and click on the social media icon that you prefer, to ensure that you stay informed on events and helpful information.
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