Transitions and learning from nature
Transitions make up the bulk of our lives. We are constantly in a state of transition, whether the changes are big or small, transitions and their processes can teach us all so much.
In yoga, spring is a time of renewal and letting go of the old to make room for the new. Seasonal changes can often feel unsettling as we shed the heaviness of winter and embrace the lightness of spring. Everything in life is a cycle: lifecycles, job cycles, motherhood cycles, relationship cycles, etc.. The spring equinox brings a return of balance to the places in our life that have felt uneasy and stuck. It is a time when we can examine our own life to seek balance, or understand where we feel out-of-balance.
Children deal with change and transformation differently than adults. Children thrive off of structure, stability and routine. Experiences including divorce, relocations, changing schools, or welcoming a new sibling, can all be scary transitions. Even the transition from back to school after vacation, or moving up to a new grade, can be difficult. Children experiencing transitions need support in honoring and understanding their feelings, to help them adjust to new situations and circumstances.
Here are some tips that that we have found helpful for children who are navigating change:
Keep routines consistent. Whether they are on break from school, shifting houses from one parent to the next, or welcoming a new sibling, it is important for kids to feel like their world hasn’t been completely turned upside down. Small routines make a big impact such as brushing your teeth before bed, setting your clothes out the night before, or making your bed in the morning. These are the types of routines that can remain constant day-to-day and don’t cause major disruptions.
Discuss change with your child. Talk about the change and let your child take ownership of their experience. What did they learn from the change? What do they need to make the transition easier? Ask them to draw a picture of how the change or experience makes them feel, and discuss what they drew and why.
Give children choices. We are big believers that children benefit when they have the power to choose. When children are in transition, giving them sense of agency over their life will help them to feel like they are in control. Choosing a new backpack, their lunch, or even the color of their bedroom will help a child to feel involved in the transition and not a stranger from it.
Use nature as a teacher and guide. Nature is a constant reminder that change in life is inevitable. Try different activities that help you and your family feel grounded while in the midst of change. After dinner and before bed, go on a moon walk and discuss how the moon phases shift and change little by little each night. Take care of a plant and journal its growth and transformation, or take a drive to a local beach, pond, or water source and discuss how just like water, we are fluid and continuously change.
We hope these ideas provide you with ways to guide children in how to navigate transitions, and help them adjust to new situations and circumstances.