Is Fall the Real New Year?

When you think of the New Year, what comes to mind? 

Champagne toasts, awkwardly long resolutions about healthy eating and exercising (not that those have ever been mine). 

But what if I told you that the real New Year doesn’t happen in the middle of winter when we’re all just trying to survive the post-holiday blues? 

Nope, the true fresh start happens in the fall, when the kids go back to school, and we parents get our second wind—whether we’re ready for it or not.
 

The Second New Year: New Beginnings, and New Supplies

As the days get shorter and the sound of the ice cream truck (do you still have those in your neighborhood) is replaced by the loud ringing of the school bell, there’s change in the air. 

It’s not just the caffeine kicking in from that third cup of coffee; it’s the excitement of the back-to-school season. 

For us parents of kids with disabilities, and disabled children this time of year is like a do-over for all the New Year’s resolutions we totally didn’t get around to in January. (I mean, I'm trying to meditate daily.)

This second New Year is our chance to hit the reset button. 

We’re talking fresh notebooks, shiny new IEPs, and the optimistic belief that this will be the year your child gets the education they deserve.

In the Fall you get to strategize like football coaches, only your endgame is less about touchdowns and more about ensuring your child is safe, happy, and learning beside their classmates. 
 

Possibilities Abound: Or at Least, That’s What We’re Telling Ourselves

The start of a new school year is like opening a box of chocolates—you never know what you’re gonna get, but you’re really hoping it’s not the one filled with disappointment. 

What new friendships will your child make?  Who will sit with them at lunch? 
How will they grow and surprise us this year? (Because, let’s face it, they always do, just not always in the way we expect.)
 

And then there’s the flip side: What challenges will pop up like that annoying mole in a whack-a-mole game? 

The thing is, we’ve been here before. We’re the pros. 

Every year brings a new chance to fine-tune your advocacy strategies, speak up for your child, and—most importantly—celebrate those little wins that are sweeter than your secret stash of chocolate.

Making the Most of the School Year: Survival Tips from the Trenches

So, how do we make the most of this second New Year? 
Well, for starters:

1.Revisit Goals (and Raise Expectations): Take a moment to reflect on last year.  Chances are the staff did not see your child as a competent learner.

Here’s the thing—they haven’t really seen what your child can do yet. 

This year, let's change that. Let’s raise the bar, push for ambitious goals, and show the school that our kids are not just capable—they’re ready to go beyond what anyone expects.

2. Communicate with Educators: Start the year off right by building a positive connection with your child’s teachers. 

Reach out early to introduce yourself and share your child’s strengths and interests. 

The more the staff know and incorporate these into lessons, the more engaged your child will be at school.

3. Focus on Well-being (For Both of You): Remember, it’s not just about progress on IEP goals.  

Keep an eye on your child’s emotional state—and your own. 

Because if they’re not getting enough sleep, let’s be honest, neither are you.

4. A New Beginning, Twice a Year: Who Needs Fireworks?

As we begin this school year, let’s do it with the same energy we had when we believed January would bring about a whole new us. 

This is the New Year that truly matters—the one filled with possibilities and unlimited opportunities.

As the leaves begin to change, take a moment to appreciate this fresh start.

How will you make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead?

I'd love to hear what you are most excited about for this New Year!