A few days ago, my daughter came to me crying. She was sad over a few things, but most of all, she was just emotional about everything. She couldn’t quite put her finger on it, she just needed her mommy and she just needed to get it all out. So we sat, we talked, we hugged and we smiled….eventually.

I expected it. She’s always felt things intensely, and with school starting – and with it bringing a new teacher, new kids in her class and serious first grade responsibilities – she was feeling the pressure of change. As we are still struggling with getting into the swing of things, I’ve been trying hard to find ways to help her blow off steam, encouraging her to express her feelings and trying to be close for extra hugs and words of encouragement.

But, as a mom, you wonder if you’re ever doing enough – even when you’re doing the best you can do. I know in the long-run she will be just fine, but I still worry. I’m proud that she thinks about everything and others as much as she does. While I encourage her to not over-worry (*ahem* like someone she knows), I do try to help her work through her feelings so that she can continue to move forward and just be a kid.

Sometimes my support means keeping busy. Other times, it means having downtime to relax and regroup. Me, I live for Pajama-Day, so we do that when we can (which isn’t nearly often enough as far as I’m concerned.)

I hope you guys are adjusting to the new school year well. I hope your little ones are having a blast and having plenty of opportunities to just relax and be a kid.

Does your kid need to blow off some steam? Here are several upcoming events to help them do just that!

Popcorn Festival

Wizard of Oz Festival

County Line Orchard Opens for Apple Picking

Garwood Orchards Open for Apple Picking

Valpo Brew Fest (ok, so this one is for moms & dads only)

Blueberry Festival (Plymouth)

Got more on your agenda? Share!