At Voyagers’ Community School, we are more than just a place of learning—we are a family. Like any close-knit family, we support one another through life’s ups and downs. Our commitment goes beyond academics; we prioritize the emotional well-being of our students and their families, creating a thriving and connected community.
Parenthood is a rewarding journey, but it’s not without challenges. The stress, exhaustion, and occasional frustrations of parenting are real. At school, we aim to create a space where joyous and messy emotions can be expressed without judgment. By modeling emotional honesty, we teach children and families that all feelings are valid and worthy of acknowledgment.
As we approach the holiday season, we’re reminded of what truly matters: family, connection, and emotional well-being. The pressure to create a picture-perfect holiday can overshadow the importance of being present with our loved ones. We encourage you to shift the focus to quality time, love, and nurturing each other’s hearts.
Parents Are Human Too: Modeling Emotional Honesty
Parenting often feels like a balancing act. Many parents worry about shielding their children from stress or frustration, but being real and honest—within reason—helps children learn that emotions are normal. We encourage you to model emotional honesty at home.
For instance, if you’ve had a tough day, sharing this in an age-appropriate way can teach children how to articulate their feelings. You might say, “I’m feeling tired today, but I’m still here for you, and I love you.” This approach normalizes emotions, showing kids that it’s okay to feel deeply and share openly.
Normalizing Emotional Expression
We create a space where children feel safe expressing their emotions at school. This openness starts with the adults in their lives. Checking in with your child regularly—asking, “How are you feeling today?” or “What made you happy, sad, or frustrated?”—fosters emotional awareness and connection.
Sharing your emotions creates a safe environment where your child feels empowered to do the same. Open dialogue about emotions at school or home helps children understand that expressing feelings is okay and an essential part of growth.
Strategies for Supporting Emotional Growth
Developing emotional intelligence is a collaborative effort between school and home. At school, we use tools and strategies to help students manage their emotions; these ideas can easily be incorporated into family life:
- Breathing exercises: Simple deep breathing—“smell the flower” (inhale) and “blow out the candle” (exhale)—helps calm overwhelming emotions.
- Mindful moments: Pause during a busy day to breathe deeply or focus on the present. This action can be a shared moment of stillness before bed or during a stressful time.
- Physical movement: Release pent-up energy through a dance session, a walk, or stretching. Movement is an excellent emotional reset for both kids and adults.
- Fresh air: When emotions run high, step outside. A quick dose of nature can have a calming and rejuvenating effect.
These small but powerful practices can make a big difference in emotional resilience for the entire family.
Exploring the Outdoors Together
Outdoor adventures are central to the Voyagers’ experience, offering countless emotional and physical growth opportunities. Time spent outdoors—walking through the woods, backyard treasure hunting, or simply cloud-watching—encourages mindfulness, creativity, and connection.
Exploring nature together as a family creates lasting memories and opens the door for meaningful conversations. Nature has a unique ability to calm the mind, strengthen bonds, and nurture emotional well-being. Plus, it’s a chance to unplug from screens and enjoy the beauty of the world around us.
Setting Realistic Expectations: You’re Doing Great
Perfection is overrated. As parents, it’s essential to set realistic expectations for ourselves and remember that it’s okay to have hard days. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Children learn self-care by watching how you care for yourself.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, share it with your child constructively. For example, “I’m feeling frustrated right now, so I’m going to take a break. Once I feel better, we’ll play together.” Modeling self-care teaches children that taking breaks and tending to emotional needs is not a weakness but a strength.
The Holidays: Prioritizing What Matters Most
The holiday season can bring added stress, with its endless to-do lists and societal pressure for perfection. But at Voyagers’, we believe that what truly matters isn’t found in the perfect gift or a flawless holiday meal—it’s in the moments of connection, kindness, and love shared with family.
As one wise parent once said, “A kind word, a pat on the head, or a loving smile has a more lasting effect than any expensive present.” This season, consider giving yourself the gift of grace. Remember that being present with your loved ones matters far more than creating the “perfect” holiday.
Building Emotional Resilience for the Future
At Voyagers’ Community School, we are committed to building a culture of emotional honesty. By encouraging open conversations at school and at home, we foster resilience, empathy, and a deeper connection among our students and their families.
Whether it’s sharing feelings at the dinner table, singing together, or spending time in nature, these small, intentional acts create a foundation for lifelong emotional well-being. As a school family, we can raise a generation of emotionally intelligent, compassionate, and resilient children.
After all, emotions aren’t something to fear or hide—they are a powerful part of being human. Let’s embrace them, nurture them, and support one another on this beautiful journey of parenthood and childhood.
References
American Psychological Association (APA)
“Parenting and Emotion Regulation” – This publication explores how parental emotional regulation and honesty influence children’s emotional intelligence and resilience.
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Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL)
“What is SEL?” – CASEL provides insights on the importance of social-emotional learning for children’s development and how families can support it at home.
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National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
“The Power of Being Present: Supporting Emotional Development in Families” – This article highlights strategies for fostering emotional awareness and connection in children through family interactions.
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Child Mind Institute
“How Mindfulness Can Help Children Manage Stress” – Offers practical strategies for mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing and grounding exercises, to help children and families manage emotions.
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Nature and Human Health Collaborative
“The Benefits of Outdoor Time for Mental and Emotional Well-being” – Highlights the emotional and psychological benefits of nature exposure for children and families.
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Written By Stacey Shearer, Teacher/Researcher, Preschool