5 Things Teachers and SLPs Learn Every Summer

Summer is my bonus for working a pretty tough job all year round. But it’s not relaxing around a pool drinking mai-tais for me. I’m busy with things in my life, including two active little boys, but this summer in particular I learned some special lessons:

1) Don’t put off what’s important

In May my aunt died suddenly. It was stressful and sad because it was mental illness-related. You know, I put off major doctors appointments, visiting the dentist and household improvements until the summer. I also don’t take vacations until the summer as well. I was reminded in May that I need to take care of things year-round, not just in the summer.

2) Spring cleaning should be called Summer cleaning!

I organized a lot of stuff around my house. I tackled my closet, the boys’ closets, and the hall closet. I organized many of my cabinet spaces. I didn’t get to the garage…YET. But it helps to get everything pulled together so I feel great as we enter back-to-school time.

3) Getting outside is good for everyone

I’ve been taking advantage of the forest preserves near my house more than I have in other summers or other seasons (bonus: they are free). I’ve taken my little boys there and they’ve run down gravel paths to catch butterflies and poked sticks into ponds. I’m reminded of my love of nature.

4) Sometimes too hot is worse than too cold

We’ve had a very mild summer that has left me wishing for super hot days, but when those 90 degree days with 100% humidity arrive, I was reminded that it’s hard to be outside those days. During the dead of winter, I want to be transported to the middle of summer, but really in the winter you can get put on more clothing and get outside. In the summer, even if you stripped down naked you wouldn’t be able enjoy your time outside. Although my little boys do enjoy that kind of thing! 😉

5) Building in more time for reflection

This summer, mostly because of my aunt’s death, I’ve made more time for reflection. It’s been really wonderful to think more about what matters to me and what’s important. I want to make sure that even during busy times at work during the school year that I make time to sit and reflect about life. Reflection adds deeper shades of meaning.

Thanks for reading — and get out there are enjoy the summer, friends!