It’s back to school season and this time of year is met with mixed reviews in our house.
Part of me is excited to get back to less time doing drop off and pick ups from camps and getting back to a regular routine. But part of me is also nervous about what this upcoming year will mean to both my boys. Ty entering grade 7 is a HUGE change with the new rotary system and he can get anxious and worried about work and doing his best all the time. I also know that this is the year I will work with the school to find more ways to help Jayden be successful in grade 3.
When it comes to my kids, I will stop at nothing to get them the help that they need and deserve. Whether it’s with me or an expert, I will get support, just like I did with Zack since the day he was born. Cheerleader and advocate was a role that both challenged me and fit like a glove. I learned so much being a mom to my little boy who needed so much help and support, so when Jayden began having challenges at school last year, my “Warrior Mama” got a nudge and I started to talk to the teacher, principal and special ed teacher to find ways to help Jayden learn and thrive. 
“Why do I need to have extra help? It’s not fair!” Jayden cried.
“When Zackie couldn’t hear or walk, what did mommy do?” I asked.
“You got him help“, he answered.
“And when you are having a tough time at school, don’t you think mommy should get you some help too? I love you so much and I’d do anything for you to just make school a bit easier and even more fun. Would that make you feel better?” I explained.
“Yes, mommy, it would” was all the answer I needed to know that I was doing the right thing for my sweet boy, even if it was challenging for both of us.
It’s hard to be singled out and need help at school, when so many of your friends around you don’t. It’s hard to be different and Jayden already feels different because he lost his brother. I worry a lot about his self-awareness, his struggles and it’s impact on his developing self esteem. How do I protect my sweet boy from teasing or from feeling stupid or less than his older brother or friends? I do know that our family is one that demonstrates that all kids are different and special in their own way, that we all learn differently and that everyone has things that are tough in their lives. I also know that Paul and I will do our best to make sure Jayden feels loved, supported and celebrated every single day.
After being turned down at school for some more advanced testing that I felt was needed, I listened to my mommy’s instinct and took matters into our own hands. We just completed comprehensive private testing to really identify the way Jayden learns, how his brain works and also to provide several suggestions for ways the school can best support him. Now we are ready to hit grade 3 armed with tools, strategies and a positive attitude that this will be his year to shine!
There’s really nothing like a great show to help kids through the struggles of life. For lessons about friendship, teamwork and to celebrate difference and acceptance, try the new Netflix Exclusive-DinoTrux.
We really enjoy watching this together and talking about the important and timely messages throughout the show!
