School Self-Care Activities

August means back to school for many military families. And for some, that means an entirely new location and new community. Parenting in a military family can feel like a whirlwind at times. Getting caught up in the busyness of life and responsibilities is easy. And taking time to teach children about self-care can feel like an impossible task. Yet, when it’s a priority, it flows over into all the other areas of their lives and proves they can take it everywhere they go.

Family spoke with Jennifer Wake, spouse of CH (Col) David Wake who is currently working for the DOD at the Pentagon, about teaching children the importance of self-care. Even though her children are grown, Jennifer shares valuable insight for those going through this hectic time. Her children are Rachel Daniels (28), who is married to an Airman, and Andrew Wake (23).

Why is self-care important to children?

Growing up, I never really thought about self-care. My mother modeled it, but she didn’t announce it. Her self-care included time with friends and exercising her brain and body. She went out to lunch with friends, learned to cook healthily, played bridge (a card game), and bowled several times a week. Watching her, I developed my self-care ideas. Taking care of your body, mind, and soul is essential. When my kids pushed my buttons, and I wanted to scream, I would put myself in time-out so I could pause, pray, and regroup. My kids now takea minute when they are frustrated or angry. They don’t say “Time out,” but we all know they must separate from whatever bothers them.

How did you and your family practice self-care during the school year?

When my children were little, I developed my self-care regimen. I volunteered, which engaged my brain and my social side. I walked my kids to school every day, and we often went to Volksmarches on Saturdays. I shared my love of exercise and the outdoors with my children. As they grew, our Saturdays usually involved some sort of outdoor activity. Playing with friends, volunteering in the community, and helping others are all part of our self-care routine. My husband and I limited the activities we involved our kids in to help keep them balanced. Self-care at young ages included naps at random times, usually in the arms of Daddy, who could sleep anywhere.

As my kids grew up, we discussed setting aside time to rest, eat, and relax. In college, they all had to figure out a self-care routine. As my kids have moved away, my self-care has evolved, and so has my children’s. My son would rather game than go outside, but he loves to swim, so he takes breaks from gaming to swim and recenter himself.

Are there special self-care activities specific to school that your children looked forward to?

Sleeping in Daddy’s arms was a favorite self-care activity when my kids were little. He could get any of them to rest and nod off. Volks-marching through German forests was also a favorite, so long as bratwurst was at the end. We started movie and game nights during the teen years, including laughter and snacks.

Self-care keeps you grounded. It encourages balance in all areas of your life. Stimulating your mind, engaging your soul with laughter and learning, and fueling your body with healthy food and exercise all lead to balance and overall well-being.