Children and Family – Lubbocks Home and Family Magazine

Santa Traditions Around the World

Courtney Dietz — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 00:52:00 +0000

Santa Traditions Around the World

Kaiya Freelon

With Christmas being a holiday that is celebrated in almost every country, the tradition of waking up on December 25th to exchange and open gifts is something well known. The lead up to the holiday and the traditions that come with it are where the differences can be seen.

United States

In the U.S. it’s common to leave cookies for Santa the night before Christmas. This trend can be traced back to the times of the Great Depression. It’s said that this tradition came to be due to parents wanting to teach their kids the importance of showing gratitude for the gifts they received during the holiday.

Japan

Just like in many other countries, children in Japan send a lot of letters to Santa. So much so that in 2020 an overseas courier service called ANA Group loaded 800,000 letters addressed to Santa on a plane. But Santa isn’t the only person kids can expect to receive gifts from. Hotei, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, is known as a protector of kids and is known to carry a sack full of objects for the kids on Christmas day as well.

Brazil

Because Christmas is celebrated during the summer in Brazil, there are some people who believe that instead of Santa’s well known warming outfit, he wears silk to combat the heat. As far as traditions go, children also leave a sock near the window, and if Santa, usually referred to as Papai Noel, finds it, he exchanges it for a gift.

These are just a few of the Santa traditions celebrated around the world. With all the different culture across the globe, it’s nice to see the various ways Kris Kringle and the holiday of Christmas is diversely celebrated.

History of Boxing Day: What’s it all about?

Courtney Dietz — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 00:24:00 +0000

History of Boxing Day: What’s it all about?

Kaiya Freelon

For many, Boxing Day is just another event we see on the calendar. Although it’s not a major holiday celebrated in America, it’s one that’s been celebrated around the world for quite some time.

So how did it all start? Well Boxing Day, also known as St. Stephen’s Day after the Christian martyr known for his charitable acts, originated in England during the 1800s. Around this time, Britain was characterized as the “most powerful empire in the world.” Thus, the holiday spread across the world and continues to be celebrated today. It was tradition for the wealthy to box and give gifts, money and more, then hand them out to servants, tradesmen, and those who were poor the day after Christmas. It was also common for servants of wealthy families to work on Christmas Day, so this was usually the day they would celebrate. Queen Victoria would be the one to eventually name the holiday, Boxing Day.

But how is the holiday celebrated now? Today, citizens celebrate Boxing Day in multiple countries including Great Britain, New Zealand, Canada, Australia and more. Although giving back is still the main focus of the holiday, in these countries people celebrate the holiday in different ways. In Canada, Boxing Day is another Black Friday. Canadians spend the day shopping and watching sports, usually hockey. In New Zealand, many people take time to relax and spend time at the beach, since it’s Summer when the holiday rolls around. In the UK, the holiday is a day for shopping rather than a day or giving gifts. This is also one of the biggest days for Premier League games, seeing as the league and the holiday seem to be intertwined with one another.

After seeing the way various countries celebrate, we notice how far they’ve gone from original traditions. The holiday is more of a day of relaxing and taking time away from work. Although it began as a day specifically to give back, it’s common during this time of the year for people to give back anyway.

Hearing all the celebration of the holiday across the world, one may wonder why it’s not celebrated in the United States. The reason for that is simple; Boxing Day wasn’t adopted by the “American government.” Since Christmas is one of the biggest holidays celebrated here with the New Year being right around the corner, we tend to put all of our attention and energy into these holidays instead. Although the holiday isn’t specifically celebrated in America, the origin of Boxing Day falls in line with the giving spirit.

History of Boxing Day

Courtney Dietz — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 00:11:00 +0000

It’s Almost Time to Celebrate Boxing Day.

Kara Hyden

What? There’s a day that celebrates people that box for sport?

No. The day after Christmas, December 26, several countries around the world, including Canada, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom celebrate Boxing Day. In some European countries such as Hungary, Germany, Poland, and the Netherlands, it’s a second Christmas Day and a public holiday. Most offices are closed when it falls on a weekday.

So what is Boxing Day?

Centuries ago, Boxing Day was when wealthier people boxed up presents as offerings for the poor. Today, the holiday involves shopping, feasting on delicious foods, enjoying sports, and spending quality time with family and friends.

But how did this day come about? What is its purpose?

Several theories exist.

The British Broadcasting Company says Boxing Day got its name from the 1800s when Queen Victoria held the throne. Since servants were required to work on Christmas, their employers would fill a box with gifts, money and leftovers and give it to them the day after Christmas, and they would share with their families.

Another theory comes from ancient churches with alms boxes. It’s said that on December 26, clergy members would give these funds to the poor in honor of the feast of St. Stephen, a Christian martyr known for charitable acts. In Ireland, Boxing Day is also known as St. Stephen’s Day.

The theory that Boxing Day derives from St. Stephens Day is found in the Christmas carol, “Good King Wenceslas.” It tells the story of the Duke of Bohemia in the 10th century when he observed a poor man on his land, struggling to gather wood in the middle of a snowstorm. He was so moved, he gathered food and wine and delivered it to his door, inspiring a tradition.

Regardless of the actual origins of the holiday, it’s clear that the day is characterized by charitable giving, gifts, and celebrations with family.

But there are a few other ways it’s celebrated today. Some see Boxing Day as a day to spend with family they didn’t get to see on Christmas, by gathering for meals, drinking at pubs, or simply enjoying the day off at home. Some see it as a day to overindulge on the leftovers; inviting friends over to enjoy festive foods. Some like to celebrate by going shopping; in some countries Boxing Day is considered the “Black Friday” akin to the one in the United States in November. It’s said that people will stand in line for hours to snag some of the best discounts of the season. Sound familiar?

And still, while Boxing Day has nothing to do with sports, it has become a day to watch football (soccer for us U.S. folks). Tracking back to the 1950’s, before the days of television, people would dress up and attend football matches on December 25 after eating. But the attitude toward sports on Christmas Day in the United Kingdom changed and the last football match to take place on Christmas occurred in 1957. So Boxing Day has become the day for all sports fans to get their fix.

And yet a final tradition is known as the Boxing Day Dip. This is when adventurous participants dress in fancy clothes and take a dunk in the freezing cold sea. Although this polar plunge tradition is still alive and well today, most brave swimmers are donning Santa hats or suits rather than their nicest formal attire.

Local Christmas Fun

Courtney Dietz — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 23:52:00 +0000

Local Christmas Fun

Kara Hyden

The Christmas season is quickly approaching, and families will be looking for fun things to do; places to see lights, Santa, and family-friendly events. We’ve curated a list of exciting and unique opportunities for all things Christmas in the Lubbock area.

Carol of Lights at Texas Tech University

Saturday, December 2 at 7:00 PM

This year, Texas Tech has been celebrating their centennial year, and the Carol of Lights is included in the celebration. Although this will be the 65th annual event, it’s bigger than ever before. This year includes live entertainment, new staging, lighting and sound, along with a big fireworks display. The event is held at Memorial Circle and the Science Quad campus.

The Carol of Lights is one of Texas Tech’s oldest and largest traditions. If you have a Christmas bucket list, this event should be on it. It’s free, but be sure to arrive early to get a good spot.

Ranching Heritage Center’s Candlelight at the Ranch

December 8 & 9, 6:30-9:00 PM

This year, the Ranching Heritage Center celebrates its 45th event. Although it’s free, they ask for a $5 per family donation.

Holiday scenes will be recreated in 15 historic structures, and visitors are provided maps. All pathways are lit to help with strollers and wheelchairs so everyone can enjoy the historic ranch. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Take your family and enjoy a throwback Christmas experience.

Adventure Park

Dinner with Santa: December 8th & 15th, 5:00-7:00 PM

Christmas in the Park: December 8/9, 15/16 & 22/23, 5:00-8:00 PM

Ice Skating in the Park: November 24–January 1

Whether you want to go ice skating, have dinner with Santa, or see some spectacular lights, Adventure Park is the place to be this holiday season.

Ice Skating opens Friday, November 24 and ends Monday, January 1. Ice skating is available Fridays-Sundays, and the whole week of Christmas, except Christmas Day. Cost is $10 per person and rentals are $5.49.

If ice skating isn’t your cup of tea, take your kids and have Dinner with Santa. The magical evening includes a slice of pizza, drink and a s’mores kit, a train ride around the park, and a photo with Santa. Prices are $12 for adults (13+), $7 for children (3-12) and toddlers (2 & under) are free.

And for those that just want to enjoy a low-key, but beautiful night, reserve your space for Christmas in the Park. This package includes a train ride through the park, hot cocoa, and a s’mores kit by the campfire, and includes the Adventure Tower to view over 500,000 lights along with great views of the city.

Regardless of which package you enjoy with your family, you’re guaranteed a great and unique experience. Reservations are required for all activities. So, visit their website at https://adventureparkfun.com to secure your spot.

Santa Land at Mackenzie Park

December 9-21, 6:00-10:00 PM

The City of Lubbock Parks and Recreation will host the 67th annual Santa Land. Approximately 50,000 people visit each year to see the huge lighted Christmas tree, animated displays, holiday light displays in various villages, and Santa and Mrs. Claus. Children come from Lubbock and surrounding areas to tell Santa their Christmas wishes. They can also take a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus. There is live entertainment on most evenings, and hot chocolate and other refreshments are available for purchase at the concession stand. Entry into Santa land is free for everyone.

Whether you’ve gone to these places for years or are ready to make new memories, Lubbock has plenty of holiday activities for families to enjoy. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Unusual Christmas Traditions

Courtney Dietz — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 23:32:00 +0000

Unusual Christmas Traditions

Owen Marshall

Christmas traditions can vary widely around the world, and some are quite unusual or unique. Here are a few examples of unusual Christmas traditions from different countries and cultures:

Krampus: In Alpine regions such as Austria and Bavaria, Krampus is a folklore figure who is the counterpart to Saint Nicholas. Krampus is depicted as a horned creature who punishes naughty children while Saint Nicholas rewards the well-behaved ones.
Caga Tió: In Catalonia, Spain, families have a log called “Caga Tió” that they decorate with a face and a hat. On Christmas Eve, children beat the log with sticks while singing a traditional song, hoping it will “poop” out presents.
Gävle Goat: In Gävle, Sweden, a giant straw goat is erected in the town’s square every year for Advent. The tradition has become famous because the goat often faces attempts of vandalism and arson.

Roller-Skating to Mass: In Caracas, Venezuela, it’s a tradition for people to roller-skate to early morning Christmas Mass. Roads are even closed to cars to make way for skaters.
KFC Christmas Dinner: In Japan, a surprising tradition involves eating KFC for Christmas dinner. This started as a marketing campaign in the 1970s and has since become a popular custom.
Yule Lads: In Iceland, there are thirteen “Yule Lads,” mischievous creatures who leave small gifts in children’s shoes on thirteen consecutive nights leading up to Christmas.

Dipping in the Danube: In Hungary, there’s a tradition where people gather on Christmas morning and head to the Danube River to dip in the icy water for good health. This tradition is rooted in folk beliefs about the healing properties of water.
Christmas Carp: In the Czech Republic, it’s common to have a live carp swimming in the family bathtub for a few days before Christmas. This fish is then prepared for the Christmas Eve meal.

Night of the Radishes: In Oaxaca, Mexico, a festival called “Noche de Rábanos” (Night of the Radishes) is held on December 23rd. Artisans carve elaborate scenes out of radishes, showcasing their creativity.
Spider Webs on the Tree: In Ukraine, it’s a tradition to include spider webs on the Christmas tree decorations. This stems from a folktale where a poor widow’s tree was covered in spider webs that turned into gold and silver.

These unusual Christmas traditions showcase the diversity of cultures and the many ways in which people celebrate the holiday season around the world.

Thanksgiving

Courtney Dietz — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 23:21:00 +0000

Thanksgiving

Harper Johnson

Thanksgiving is a time for families and friends to come together, express gratitude, and enjoy a festive meal. Here are some common Thanksgiving traditions that people often partake in:

Feast: The centerpiece of Thanksgiving is a large, hearty meal that typically includes a roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, vegetables, and various side dishes. Pumpkin pie and other desserts are often enjoyed as well.
Turkey Pardon: In the United States, it has become a tradition for the President to pardon a live turkey, sparing it from being part of the Thanksgiving meal. This lighthearted gesture is followed by the presentation of the National Thanksgiving Turkey to the President.
Family Gathering: Many people travel to spend Thanksgiving with family members. It’s a time to reconnect, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company.

Thanksgiving Parade: Watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City is a longstanding tradition for many families. The parade features floats, giant balloons, marching bands, and performances.
Gratitude: Before the meal, it’s common for everyone to go around the table and share something they are thankful for. This is a moment of reflection and appreciation.
Volunteer Work: Some families and individuals choose to spend part of their Thanksgiving volunteering at soup kitchens, shelters, or other community service activities to help those in need.

Football: Watching football games, whether at home or in person, is a cherished tradition for many on Thanksgiving Day.
Black Friday Shopping: The day after Thanksgiving, known as Black Friday, has become synonymous with shopping deals and discounts, prompting some people to participate in early-morning or late-night shopping trips.
Cooking and Baking: Preparing traditional family recipes and sharing the responsibility of cooking and baking with loved ones is a cherished Thanksgiving tradition.

Friendsgiving: In addition to celebrating with family, some individuals also host “Friendsgiving” gatherings with their close friends. These gatherings often involve a potluck-style meal.
Decorations: Decorating the house with autumn-themed decor, such as pumpkins, leaves, and candles, adds to the festive atmosphere.
Outdoor Activities: Depending on the weather, some families might engage in outdoor activities like hikes, nature walks, or touch football games.

Thanksgiving Crafts: Children and adults alike might participate in Thanksgiving-themed crafts and activities, creating place cards, centerpieces, or other decorations.
Watching Movies: After the meal, some families enjoy watching movies together, either classic Thanksgiving-themed films or other family favorites.
Leftovers: After the feast, leftovers are often enjoyed for days. Some people even look forward to the creative meals they can make from the leftovers.

These traditions vary from family to family and region to region, but they all contribute to the warm and festive spirit of Thanksgiving.

Dia de los Muertos

Courtney Dietz — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 05:01:00 +0000

Dia de los Muertos

Mia Harrington

ia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a traditional Mexican holiday that honors and celebrates deceased loved ones. It is a vibrant and meaningful cultural event that combines indigenous practices with Catholicism and has deep historical and spiritual significance. Here’s an overview of the history and customs of Dia de los Muertos:

Historical Origins:

Dia de los Muertos has indigenous roots that date back thousands of years to pre-Columbian civilizations in Mexico, such as the Aztecs, Maya, and Purepecha.
These cultures believed that death was a natural part of the human cycle and that the deceased continued to exist in the spiritual world.
Rituals and celebrations related to death and the afterlife were integral to their belief systems.

Influence of Catholicism:

When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the Americas in the 16th century, they encountered indigenous practices related to death and the afterlife.
In an effort to convert indigenous populations to Christianity, the Spanish missionaries incorporated these practices into the Catholic observance of All Saints’ Day (November 1st) and All Souls’ Day (November 2nd).

Customs and Traditions:

Altars (Ofrendas): Families create altars adorned with offerings, photos, candles, flowers, food, and mementos to honor and remember deceased loved ones. These altars are set up in homes, cemeteries, and public spaces.
Marigolds (Cempasúchil): Marigold flowers are the traditional flowers of Dia de los Muertos. They are believed to guide the spirits of the dead back to the world of the living.
Sugar Skulls (Calaveras de Azúcar): These intricately decorated sugar skulls are symbolic representations of deceased individuals. They often include the person’s name and are placed on altars.
Pan de Muerto: This sweet, round bread is a Dia de los Muertos staple. It is often decorated with bone-shaped dough pieces and represents the circle of life and death.

Customs and Traditions:

La Catrina: A prominent symbol of Dia de los Muertos, La Catrina is a skeleton figure dressed in elegant clothing. It was originally created as a satirical image to mock those who aspired to European aristocracy but now serves as a reminder of the inevitability of death.
Visiting Cemeteries: Families visit the graves of their loved ones to clean and decorate them with offerings. They spend time at the cemetery, sharing stories and memories.
Candles: Candles are lit to guide the spirits of the departed back to the world of the living and to create a path for them.
Food Offerings: Traditional foods that the deceased enjoyed in life are prepared and placed on the altar as offerings. These offerings symbolize the continuation of life through memory and tradition.
Music and Dance: Celebrations often include music, dance, and parades that celebrate life and death. The lively atmosphere reflects the belief that death is not an end but a continuation.

Dia de los Muertos is a celebration of remembrance, love, and connection with those who have passed away. It is a time to honor the deceased while embracing the cyclical nature of life and death in a colorful and joyous manner.

History of Halloween

Courtney Dietz — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 05:01:00 +0000

Halloween

Sara Maples

Halloween, as we know it today, has evolved from a blend of ancient Celtic, Roman, and Christian traditions. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, celebrated around October 31st in what is now Ireland, the United Kingdom, and parts of France. Here’s a brief overview of the history of Halloween:

Ancient Celtic Festival of Samhain: The Celts believed that on the night of October 31st, the boundary between the living and the dead blurred, allowing spirits to roam the Earth. Samhain marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. People lit bonfires and wore costumes to ward off evil spirits.
Roman Influence: In the first century AD, the Roman Empire conquered much of Celtic territory. Some elements of the Roman festivals, such as Feralia (a day to honor the dead) and Pomona (a festival dedicated to the goddess of fruit), were integrated into Samhain celebrations.
Christianization: In the 9th century, the Catholic Church established All Saints’ Day (also known as All Hallows’ Day) on November 1st to honor saints and martyrs. The evening before became known as All Hallows’ Eve, eventually shortened to Halloween.

Blend of Traditions: Over time, the customs of Samhain and Christian traditions merged, leading to a celebration that included both religious observances and more secular activities.
Migration to America: Halloween was brought to North America by European immigrants, particularly Irish immigrants fleeing the Great Famine in the 19th century. In the United States, the celebration gradually evolved and incorporated various cultural influences.
Trick-or-Treating: The practice of trick-or-treating likely has its roots in the medieval custom of “souling.” On All Souls’ Day, poor individuals would go door-to-door, offering prayers for the deceased in exchange for food. In the early 20th century, Halloween became more community-focused, and the modern concept of trick-or-treating emerged.

Commercialization: By the mid-20th century, Halloween had become a holiday with commercial potential. Costumes, decorations, and candy sales became a significant part of the celebration.
Pop Culture Influence: Movies, television shows, and media have played a role in shaping the modern image of Halloween, including its association with monsters, witches, and supernatural elements.
Global Spread: In recent decades, Halloween has spread beyond North America and Europe, becoming a popular holiday in many parts of the world, albeit with variations in traditions and customs.

Today, Halloween is celebrated with a mix of traditions, including costume parties, haunted houses, pumpkin carving, spooky decorations, and of course, trick-or-treating. While its origins are rooted in ancient rituals, Halloween has evolved into a festive and fun holiday celebrated by people of all ages around the world.

Local Fall Fun

Courtney Dietz — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 05:01:00 +0000

Lubbock Area Fun

Kara Hyden

The fall season usually brings thoughts of bonfires, football, cooler temperatures, and almost anything made with pumpkin. Whether you’re a sports fan, a carnival fan, or just a fan of hanging with family, Lubbock has something for everyone. We’ve searched high and low to bring you a list of fun things to do in and around Lubbock this fall. Below are activities for fall family fun.

At’l Do Farms

6323 FM 1294

If you like corn mazes, good food and pumpkins, be sure your fall plans include At’l Do Farms. They are celebrating their 21st season this year by hosting the corn maze and many other fun activities for families with kids of all ages. Open September 17 through November 5.

Tickets: $12/adults & kids 5+; kids 4 & younger are free

Visit during the week (Tuesday–Thursday) and tickets are only $8 each.

Admission includes the corn maze and fairy tale trail, the cow train, hayride, pumpkin patch (pumpkins range from $1-$20), pumpkin hollow and the barnyard. They also have food and beverages available for purchase.

Another local favorite is the Panhandle-South Plains Fair. For 2023, the fair is open September 22-30.

Panhandle-South Plains Fairgrounds

105 East Broadway

Lubbock, Texas

(806) 763-2833

www.southplainsfair.com

Every year, the South Plains Fair draws thousands during the nine days they are open; and they truly have something for everyone. Whether you want to gorge on the amazing fair food, get your thrills on carnival rides, check out some great entertainment, or see the sights, the South Plains Fair is the place to be.

Tickets: $10/adults & youth, 13+; $5/kids 2-12; kids 1 & younger are free

Parking: $5/car

Open 8:00am–11:00pm (Sunday–Thursday) & until Midnight (Friday & Saturday).

There is so much to see and do at the fair, so be sure to check out their website for specifics on vendors, carnival times and shows.

Now if you’re a fan of pumpkin patches, homemade goodies and photo booths, stop by the First Cumberland Presbyterian Church Pumpkin Patch, also known as “The Pumpkin Patch Church”.

First Cumberland Presbyterian Church

7702 Indiana Avenue

Lubbock, Texas 79423

(806) 792-3553

www.cpclubbock.com

The 21st annual pumpkin patch opens September 23 and will remain open through October 31, unless they sell out of pumpkins. Pumpkins come from the Navajo Indian Reservation in the Four Corners’ area of New Mexico. Besides pumpkins, church members provide handcrafted items available for purchase. Let’s also not forget about their world-famous pumpkin bread home-baked by the ladies in the church.

Open Monday–Friday 3:00pm–7:00pm; Saturdays 10:00am–7:00pm; and Sundays 12:30pm–7:00pm. No charge to visit the patch or take some great pictures with your friends and family at various photo booths. Pumpkin prices range from $.50 up to $50+, depending on size. The church typically sells between 8,000 to 10,000 pumpkins during this event. Stop by and have some fall fun with your family!

Last, another place for families to visit is the Pumpkin Trail, hosted by the Lubbock Memorial Arboretum. The Arboretum receives various donations of carved pumpkins from different organizations around town.

Pumpkin Trail

Lubbock Memorial Arboretum

4111 University Avenue

Lubbock, Texas

(806) 767-3706

www.lubbockarboretum.org

Open October 26–29 during the day and early evenings. The trail is free of charge, and a place for families to take a leisurely stroll to view pumpkins.

These are just a few highlights of annual events held in the Lubbock area during the fall. Be sure to visit these with your family. Take lots of pictures, eat some great food and make lasting memories. Happy Fall Y’all!

Start the School Year off Right

Courtney Dietz — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 05:01:00 +0000

Start the School Year off Right

Susan Grant

Starting a new school year on the right foot can set a positive tone for the months ahead. Here are 10 tips for a successful start to a new school year:

Organize Your Supplies: Make sure you have all the necessary school supplies, textbooks, and materials well before the first day. Being organized will help you feel prepared and ready to learn.
Set Goals: Set academic and personal goals for the year. Having clear objectives can provide motivation and a sense of purpose throughout the school year.
Create a Study Schedule: Establish a study schedule that balances your classes, homework, and other commitments. Consistent study habits are key to academic success.

4. Use a Planner: Use a physical planner or a digital tool to keep track of assignments, projects, tests, and extracurricular activities. This will help you manage your time effectively.

5. Get to Know Your Teachers: Build positive relationships with your teachers from the start. Introduce yourself, ask questions, and attend office hours if you need help or clarification.

6. Stay Organized: Keep your backpack, study area, and digital files organized. This will reduce stress and make it easier to find what you need when you need it.

7. Engage in Class: Actively participate in class discussions, take notes, and ask questions. Engaging in class will help you understand the material better and stay connected with the subject matter.

8. Connect with Peers: Build friendships with classmates. Having a support network can make school more enjoyable and provide study partners when needed.

9. Balance Work and Rest: Remember to balance your academic efforts with adequate rest and relaxation. Getting enough sleep and taking breaks are essential for maintaining focus and overall well-being.

10. Stay Positive: Embrace a positive mindset, even when faced with challenges. A positive attitude can help you overcome obstacles and approach the school year with enthusiasm.

Bonus Tip: Seek Help When Needed: If you’re struggling with a subject or facing difficulties, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Reach out to teachers, tutors, or counselors for support and guidance.

Remember that every school year is an opportunity for growth and learning. By staying organized, setting goals, and maintaining a positive attitude, you can set yourself up for a successful and fulfilling academic year.