The annual school drop-off emotions

THE start of a new school year heralds many mixed feelings for parents and kids. For some parents, it is met with a huge sigh of relief, knowing their beloved children will once again be back in a routine and not complaining of being bored, and the ever-present cry of "there is nothing to do". For parents of boarding kids, this time of year is usually tinged with sadness and a feeling of loss, as their kids either start another year of boarding, or begin for the first time on the journey of many years of separation from their homes. Separation from your children is heart wrenching. Many parents feel this even if they live in a town with a school, as they adapt to not having their little person with them 24/7, but when many weeks of separation is added to the mix, then these feelings become even more intense. Trying to cope with the absence of boarding aged kids from the age of 11 is even harder, knowing for many kids, their time of living full time at home has perhaps finished, especially if these kids, having completed boarding school then go on to college or a get job away from home. Some never return except for visits. The realisation of this fact can cause many parents high levels of grief. Being a bush kid means not only are you a loved and valued member of your family, but also an important part of the team that works beside their siblings and parents in the family farming or grazing business. These kids play a vital part in helping with the work load, assisting well above the normal expectation of many children the same age. Working stock alongside their parents from the time they can ride a motorbike with safety or a horse, means they can become part of the mustering team. For the kids, they feel separation anxiety from not only their family but also their animals which often form a major part of their friendship group. Dogs, horses, poddy lambs, calves and even missing the pet pig can cause a feeling of heartache. Not being able to see the stars at night or having people around them constantly, when they are used to wide open spaces and solitude, can take a lot of adjusting to. Fortunately, kids are very resilient people. Ten weeks may seem like an eternity but the best solution I have found is don’t live in the past, or project into the future, just live in the present. Decide that boarding school isn’t about what you have lost, but rather a new experience that can be enjoyed. It will be ok.