Logistically speaking

My daughter is under a lot of stress this week. Jay is in fifth grade this year and, to an extent understandably, the teachers are working toward getting the kids ready for the rigors of middle school. Some of their tactics are a bit extreme, in my opinion, but okay.

Jay has a book report-style presentation due today. She has a science test after lunch today. And tomorrow is her spelling test. Thankfully, last year she had a project due that she ended up cranking out in half the time she was allotted. That taught her to make better use of the time she has to complete her work. So she's been working on her presentation for about a week now, it's ready, she's ready. Jay doesn't think she is good at science, so that alone makes it harder for her to absorb what she is learning and studying.

Last night she finished her project and practiced her presentation a couple of times for me so we could work out any bugs. Then she went on to study her science definitions. It amazes me how often I find myself teaching Jay the strategies I learned in school to help her manage stress and anxiety - both of which I experienced a lot of as a student. It seems teaching her these strategies is just as important as the myriad lessons I find myself teaching her on a daily basis.

On her way out the door this morning she told me, "I have my presentation this morning then my science test later. THEN, tomorrow I have my spelling test!"

"Okay, let's take care of what we have to do today - we will study for spelling tonight after school. Say a prayer before your presentation, then again before science and take a deep breath. You'll do great," I told her.

Jay is easily overwhelmed, which I can relate to. But knowing that breaking the to-do list into manageable pieces has helped me all of my life, especially in school. School comes to her easier than it ever did for me, but it is nice to know that I can help her navigate the logistics of her rigorous school work. If there is one thing I am, it's analytical to a fault. I guess some annoying traits do pay off.