I called me son’s teacher a couple nights ago. When she answered I started with usual question of, “Hello, how are you?”
Long pause…”Ummm, fine” she unsteadily replied.
“Would my son be the reason you are ‘Ummm, fine?”
“Well, lets just say he is 1/29th of the problem. Whoever penned the song “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of Year” was obviously not a teacher,” she jokingly reported. She went on to say the whole class was stressed although, yes, my son was struggling more than others.
I was not at all surprised by her comment. Holidays are hard on him. They always have been. He is the type of child who needs a lot of structure. He thrives on routine and likewise, does not perform well without it. Changing things up with such horrible events such as Christmas programs or even class parties, although seemingly fun, can create havoc with my darling monster.
I realize, as the teacher said, all kids get out of sync around this time of year. Something to do with the “magic” of it all I am sure. The anticipation, excitement, thrill of it all is too much for their little brains to compute. (Heck, I get overwhelmed and a tad wired too). However, my son takes it to a new level with his tantrums and screaming. I try hard to let it all blow over, but in the midst of all I am trying to get done during this “special” time of year, my patience can admittedly run thin (and I am pretty sure his teacher is running on empty)!
My naturally inclination is to let behaviors and expectations slide a little. After all, I can understand why he is struggling and it is Christmas time (I am not a total Grinch). However, I know if I do this I will only be hurting him more. If anything I need to be firmer about my rules and requirements. He needs me to be the one stable in his life during this season of interruptions and changes.
So during this “most wonderful time of year” I am thankful to be his mom. I am grateful for the season and the meaning behind all the hussle and bustle. I am even more appreciative when it all ends and things get back to normal (whatever that is).
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