As we move closer to the end of the year, many of us begin to reflect on the 12 months that have been – and this is especially so in settings where ‘end of year’ reports and evaluations are being written.

Here in the Creating Connections Australia (CCA) office, we have been involved in parent / teacher interviews ourselves and reflecting on our own children’s past year.

End of year meetings are a great opportunity to celebrate achievements, but the danger that comes with evaluating what has been is that there can be a heavy focus on what still needs to be worked on in the future. It can be a case of “yes, that was really great, but perhaps it’s important to now continue to work on”…..

Sometimes, though, we just need to be glad with what is… to celebrate the achievements no matter how big or small they are.

Because feats of grandeur are relative to each personal situation.

End of year reflections should be about acknowledging and celebrating who you are and the person you’ve become – the fact that you were able to make a new friend, or that you were able to face a fear and succeed (even though your head was working hard at telling you otherwise).

When approached in a positive way, end of year reflections should leave a sense of pride – not wishing for more.

So, we’ve rejoiced in our children’s successes these past few weeks.

Would these be successes that others would celebrate too? Perhaps not? But they are successes to feel great about, and to celebrate as grand feats. Because in our eyes, and in the eyes of our children, they are as grand as they come!