A social media win: Back to school photos

I absolutely adore back to school photo season. Whether it's the littles taking their first steps into kindergarten or the high school seniors striking a pose with their new backpacks, I can't get enough of these snapshots. I especially love the grown ups who are ready to support our students at school in our absence. They capture a beautiful spectrum of emotions and experiences, and there’s something universally heartwarming about it all. Here, in the Akron area, we are smack in the middle of this season.

There’s a lot more behind those picture-perfect moments than meets the eye. When I see a reluctant teenager, I can almost hear the negotiations and bribes that were likely involved to get them to pause their chaotic morning for a photo op. I imagine the careful balancing act between a reluctant smile and the promise of leaving them alone if you can just get one nice photo. And when I spot a little one in a crisp, new uniform, I can't help but envision the inevitable splash of ketchup from the cafeteria that will soon grace their outfit, a colorful reminder of the adventures that are coming.

Here’s why I gain so much joy from this time of year:

Hope: Back to school photos are like little windows into our collective hopes and anticipations. Each image symbolizes a fresh start brimming with potential, capturing the essence of a new beginning. It’s a time when dreams are rekindled, and possibilities feel endless. For some, hope partners with anxiety; what if it is horrible???

Anticipation: Every photo tells a story of excitement for the year ahead, filled with the promise of new friendships, lessons, and personal growth. The anticipation is palpable, reflecting the eagerness of both kids and parents as they look forward to what lies ahead. This can be tricky for those who have had tough school experiences, you may also see a little bit of the nervousness that comes with past experiences. 

Solidarity: These photos also highlight the solidarity among parents. We all share the common goal of setting our children up for success, even if that means we’re secretly plotting the best way to manage a reluctant smile or tame wild hair. There's a sense of camaraderie in navigating the back-to-school chaos together, knowing that we're all working towards the same goal. Parents' worries will show up here too, another unifying feature of parenthood: do they have what they need?  Will they have friends? 

Celebration of Differences: Let’s not forget the celebration of differences. Each photo showcases unique outfits, personalities, and family traditions, reflecting the rich diversity in our world. We send our students to different schools, make varied choices, but ultimately share the common goal of raising compassionate and thoughtful individuals. These snapshots are a testament to our varied yet unified approaches to nurturing our children.

Signs of Growth: Back to school photos are also markers of growth. As we watch children transition into new grades and take on fresh challenges, we witness their ongoing development. These moments serve as poignant reminders of how far they’ve come and how much further they are yet to go. It’s a celebration of progress and potential.

So, as your kids, students, neighbors, or grandchildren embark on another school year, take a moment to send them wishes of hope, growth, and strength. Even if it is not posted on social media. Our world could use a little more of both right now, and these snapshots are a beautiful way to celebrate and encourage them on their journey. Share in the joy of these moments, knowing that each photo is a small yet significant victory in the story of their lives.