NU # 37 - Real Talk @ June Chaos

Let me be real with you… 

Parents & educators are often caught off guard by the chaos that the month of June can sometimes bring to daily life.  You forget how it feels until you're right back in it.

Why is that?  

Let me explain…  

1. End-of-Year Overload (aka the “June Pile-Up”)

June is a dumping ground for final school projects, tests, performances, field trips, and spirit days — all crammed into just a few weeks. Parents are juggling permission slips, celebrations, graduation ceremonies, snacks, and athletic events, often with little notice. It feels like a sprint after a marathon.

Why it matters: Families are mentally and physically stretched thin, and routines break down under the pressure.

June Chaos

2. Emotional Crash & Burn 

Kids are dealing with big feelings — anticipation, excitement, anxiety, sadness, and transition — all at once. Saying goodbye to teachers, classrooms, and friends (even temporarily) can stir up nerves and behavior changes that catch parents off guard. Many kids will be unable to articulate why they feel “off”. Most often, it’s a combination of these many transitions. The changes bring about a tidal wave of ups & downs and all of the emotions that come with them. 

Why it matters: Emotions run high and patience runs low, creating friction at home, work & school.

3. Summer Uncertainty Looms

Parents are scrambling to finalize (or even start) summer plans: camps, childcare, travel, or DIY solutions. The question “What are we doing all summer?” becomes a source of daily stress. This pending change in routine will be an adjustment for many and because of this it brings on the high stress. 

Why it matters: Without a clear plan, families feel overwhelmed and reactive instead of calm and prepared.

4. Everyone Is Out of Steam

By June, both kids and adults are simply "fried". Focus is gone. Stamina is gone. Rest seems impossible. Motivation is thin. Even small tasks feel heavy. The finish line is in sight, but no one has much gas left in the tank to get there smoothly.

Why it matters: Chaos peaks when people are at their lowest energy — a perfect storm for kid & adult meltdowns. Attention to detail is lost and depth of planning is not there. 

How do we survive this chaotic 4 weeks?  Here are a few simple ideas:  

• Say “no”.  You don’t have to attend every single social event. You won’t miss out on as much as you think. 

• Keep your distance from people who suck the life out of you. Recognize these folks and plan accordingly. 

• Don’t compromise on sleep. If you can maintain the sleep routine, this will pay dividends. 

• Be mindful of the crappy food.  A few treats are okay but when it becomes a daily thing and there are French fries & ice cream daily, kid behavior will suffer. 

• Plan ruthlessly. Post your plans. Share your plans. Involve the kids in creating the plan. Remove the “surprise” factor whenever you can. 

• Be the model for setting the pace. Are you rushing around like a mad woman and not even aware of this? Are you giving off this vibe to your kids without noticing?  SLOW IT DOWN - with intention. This mindset creates a whole new level of peace & helps you to feel back in control. 

• Remember this pace is temporary. It will soon all be over and a whole new set of problems will arise because of summer break.  

That’s all I have for now. 

Thanks for reading. 

Jen