The first day of school
can be scary!
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The summer is drawing to a close, and there is one time-honored ritual looming right around the corner: the first day of school.
It's a huge milestone for everyone. For children it's a sign that they've moved up a year, advanced to a new level of learning. Particularly if they're moving from one school to another -- elementary transitioning into middle school, junior high to high school. It's like the pre-pubescent version of Degree Initiation. For parents, it's a symbol that we've made it through another year of staying up late explaining algebra problems, helping build dioramas out of shoeboxes, and watching our children grow -- physically and emotionally.
I've found, however, that no matter how much my kids love school -- and they do love it -- they're always a little nervous that first day. It's a new year, with new teachers, new friends... let's face it, it can be some frightening stuff. Why not find a way to incorporate your spirituality into helping your kids -- or yourself! -- get back into the swing of things. Here are a few articles you should check out, to smooth the transition from summer break into full-contact learning:
- The Silly Celebration of the Sacred School Supplies: Try this ritual to consecrate your kids' back to school tools. Warning - don't take yourself too seriously when you do it.
- The Lion King Kid's Talisman. Got little ones who are anxious about starting school? Try making a talisman to give them a boost of confidence.
- Prayer to Minerva, Goddess of Education: Offer up a prayer to Minerva for guidance and wisdom during your educational year.
- Teen Pagans and Bullying: Tips on how to be an advocate for your child if they're a victim of religious discrimination or bullying.
- Rights of Pagan Students: Learn about what rights your student - and your family - is guaranteed in their school.
- Federal Guidelines on Religion in Public Education: What rules are in place for expression of religion in public schools?
- Religion in Private Schools: If your student goes to a private school, their rights may be very different than those of public school students. Read this article to find out what limitations may be in place.
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Hi Patti,
While these articles are useful for Pagan parents, what about us Pagan college students? I believe more articles relating to the difficulties college students who are Pagan face daily would be very helpful for me and others who are struggling to get their degrees in an often Pagan-unfriendly environment (especially if they attend a private college).
Thank you for your consideration!
I second that request!
Working on it — stay tuned!
patti
To Ariasna and Rustrose: I work in the chaplain’s office at Yale. We have a very open and encompacing multifaith program. Students are encouraged to find like-minded students and form their own groups, for support, studying their religion, and for celebrating holidays of their religion. We publish a multifaith handbook and calendar listing holidays in each month. Two pagan holidays are included: Samhain and Beltane. My wish is that more Pagan, Wiccan and nature based students would come forward so we can help them with difficulties they may be facing. I’ve worked in the chaplain’s office for 11 years and only one student came forward a few years ago, but has now graduated. Perhaps the colleges you are attending are also waiting for you to come forward so they can assist and encourage your activities. I am a solitary practioner myself, and would love to see such a group of students come forward. Good luck and bright blessings to you for happy college years.
I would also like articles regarding pagan college students. Sometimes classroom discussions turn to religion, and I am usually not comfortable giving my input when asked. Just unsure how I can respond without the rest of the class looking at me like I grew horns!
Thank you for this article. Always looking for and encouraged by articles that help my small children identify and enjoy our faith.