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Re-Entry: Grown-Ups vs. Kids

A trip of a lifetime… I saved my pennies, carved out time I didn’t really have, and flew halfway across the world to Melbourne, Australia. I watched the greatest tennis players compete in one of the most spectacular venues, explored breathtaking sights, indulged in incredible food, and shared unforgettable moments with wonderful friends. For two glorious weeks, the stress of daily life disappeared, and my electronic communication was limited to my hotel room Wi-Fi.
 

And now, I’m back. Exhausted. Jet-lagged, playing catch-up at work, settling back into routine, and nursing a bit of a cold.
 

Why am I sharing this? Not to complain—that’s not my nature. But…
 

What is Re-Entry Like for Your Kids at the End of Summer?

 

And more importantly, how close to the start of school should they stay away?
 

Summer camp, travel, and new experiences immerse kids in a completely different world—one where the usual worries, stressors, and (most importantly) electronics fade away. The longer they spend in this world, the more profound the impact on their behavior, resilience, and ability to maintain a sense of calm and order.
 

Yes, re-entry can be a challenge, but it’s different for kids than it is for adults. And the older they are, the longer it may take to adjust. Why?
 

Re-Entry by Age:

 

🧒 Younger Kids:
They come home bursting with stories, in desperate need of a deep-clean bath (from head to toe and back again), and a fresh set of sheets. Maybe a little reading to shake off the academic cobwebs, and they’re good to go.
 

👩‍🎓 Teens:
They also have plenty to share—but they’ll need space to decompress, a long shower, sensitivity to their newfound independence, and most of all, sleep. A quick academic refresh, and they’re ready.
 

🧑‍💼 Grown-Ups (That’s Us!):
We return to laundry piles, unpacking, unanswered emails, overdue bills, an expired gallon of milk, and that one hidden lemon rotting in the fridge. And, of course, we head straight back to work.
 

The Takeaway?

Don’t assume your child needs the same amount of time to re-adjust as you would. If they get home just a few days before school starts—don’t stress. They need far less to re-enter than we do.
 

As for this traveler? There’s no place like home.
 

Posted: 2/2/2023 5:17:04 PM by Global Administrator | with 0 comments