You have earned this time to replenish and recharge. Now, I challenge you all to take time to have fun, because before you know, the NEW SCHOOL YEAR will be here, and you will need to be fully charged.
Evelyn Sullivan, M.Ed.
Director, Early Childhood Education,
North American Division
1
2
3
5
6
4
y the end of every school year, educators are often exhausted because their work is emotionally, mentally, and physically demanding on many levels. Planning lessons, grading, meetings, and responding to emails usually extend far beyond the school day. Many teachers work late nights and weekends to meet daily demands. Also, managing diverse student behaviors, maintaining discipline, and creating a positive learning environment require constant vigilance and energy. Educators of all levels care deeply about their students, often taking on roles beyond academics–counselor, mentor, and parental figures. This constant emotional support can be draining.
Because the job of an educator demands so much, they often sacrifice their well-being, rarely having time to fully rest, recharge, or take care of personal needs. Now that another school year has come to an end, this is the time for educators to focus on replenishing their energy during the summer months. Here are six Cs to help you prepare for a new school year.
Catch Up On Rest
During the summer, your body can recover by maintaining a healthy sleep schedule. Catch up on rest that might have been neglected during the school year and forget about setting your alarm, unless you have a necessary appointment. Also, taking short catnaps in the fresh air during the afternoon is an excellent way to recharge your body and boost your immune system while soaking up the sunshine vitamin.
Creative and Restoration Outlets
Summer is a perfect time for educators to refresh their minds and spark joy by reconnecting with activities they love—reading or joining a book club, taking an art class, gardening, swimming, baking, traveling, camping, or exploring nature. These are just a few things you can do to indulge in creativity.
Care for Yourself
Summer provides a much-needed opportunity to rest and avoid burnout. Take time to recharge by incorporating meditation, journaling, or deep breathing to reduce stress and improve mental clarity. Also, invest time in eating healthier foods and exercising regularly; you won’t regret it.
Change of Scenery
Summer months allow educators to explore and change scenery on an extended vacation or several weekend trips. Traveling encourages mindfulness—you notice, engage, and live more fully in the moment. Visiting new places reminds you that despite differences, people everywhere share core desires—love, safety, meaning, joy. This can offer a fresh perspective and recharge one's spirit.
Connect with Family and Friends
Spending quality time with family and friends energizes and satisfies psychological and emotional needs. Sharing laughter and joy with loved ones can help you relax and provide new perspectives. Find time to share a meal, play group games, and enjoy the outdoors, which can rejuvenate mind and body.
Celebrate Your Journey and Plan Ahead
Summer is an excellent time to use quiet time to reflect on and celebrate (alone or with others) your teaching journey and accomplishments, set gentle intentions for the year ahead, and relax without pressure. This practice will help you appreciate the work you have done!
TOP
