SELF-CARE AND PREPARING FOR THE 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR

As we approach the end of summer, kids, parents, and school staff alike are starting to prepare to return to classrooms.  Following three tumultuous years inside and outside of schools, there has been a noted increase in stress and exhaustion, and it can be hard following the rush of responsibilities to actively approach self-care during the break of the summer months. 



For educators, we wanted to share one of our favorite articles on the subject, written last year by a former teacher for PBS. It covers many of the essentials of self-care, including tips on how to mindfully rest and recharge from the framework of burnout following a tough school year.   There are many more interesting articles on education and self-care in the PBS Teachers Lounge blog series to explore as well.  For all parents, we recommend exploring the self care summer toolkit as a potential starting place to explore mindful self-care for yourselves and your family.   Summer can be enjoyable but also stressful with the kids at home, and it is always good to stop and take stock of how you are feeling and what you can do for yourself as well. 



As well as self-care, there are ongoing challenges families face in meeting their needs for essential supplies. We wanted to take the time to highlight different resources for families this month.  Check out these great links including school supplies, group support, and more.   

• This back to school mental health checklist shows many useful tips for returning to the routine of school days and responsibilities. 

• This site offers a list of school supply distributers for low-income families in need in the Boston area.
• This guide is another source of major resources for seeking out school supplies if you belong to a family in need.
• The Salvation Army is hosting their 11^th annual Back to School Distribution Drive on Tuesday August 22nd.
• School on Wheels is completing a yearly donation drive and services for students fighting homelessness, click the link to find out more about their mission.
• The National Alliance on Mental Illness offers a free six-week virtual educational and support group called NAMI Basics for parents of emotionally and behaviorally troubled children and teens.  Be sure to check out their other family support offerings.
• Parents Helping Parents is a support organization with in-person and virtual parenting support groups as well as a 24-hour support line.

Please feel free to reach out to us at the Employee Assistance Program with any other resources you feel would be good for this list, or if you have any questions. Have a good month, see you in the fall!