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So, the push is over, and now you have the admissions decisions you’ve been waiting for. Perhaps they are the decisions you were hoping for, but perhaps not. Perhaps your child got in the school of your dreams, but perhaps they did not. Perhaps your child was accepted by a school that wasn’t in your top three choices, or perhaps they have been wait-listed. Any one of these scenarios can be true – and you have to figure out a way to manage your feelings...
Let’s be real. If you got want you wanted, you’re really lucky. Count your blessings and say thank you. But whatever you do, don’t gloat. School decisions around families’ most precious treasures – their children – as you know, fall on highly sensitive and emotional ears. Be gracious. Be empathetic. Be kind.
If your child was not accepted into the school you set your sights on, breathe. Allow yourself to feel the pangs of rejection, but don’t let them control your feelings or take over your emotions. Adjust your dial and make some lemonade from the lemons you feel you’ve been handed. Some believe every child lands where they belong. Think about that, as you sip your lemonade and work on cultivating a positive mindset while considering your options. Like your second- or third-choice school. Or the wait list you’ve landed on.
If your older child, too, is feeling the sting of rejection, stay positive and proactive as you explore options. Validate your child’s feelings, and work together to create a plan for the next steps. Whatever you do don’t be excessively negative – or put pressure on your child to "get over it" too quickly.
Above all remember, no matter what your child’s age, getting into a specific school doesn't define anyone’s future success. A good education is to be found in many places ... and in many schools.
