Back-to-School: “Greatest Hits”

It is always such sweet sorrow to part with Summer.

But over the years, we have had the pleasure of bringing a touch of Shakespeare to the back-to-school season. Now, we want to share a few of our favourite posts – greatest hits! — about easing the return to school days for children, teachers, and parents.

In fact, our very first post was about how Charles and Mary Lamb’s classic Tales from Shakespeare can offer thought-provoking reading for students who might need some distraction from the back-to-school blues. More specifically, have a look at this piece about the many parts we play both in real life and on the stage for young people who may be nervous about starting a new school.

Giving students a greater perspective about this phase of their experience can help ease some of the immediate “stage fright” about fitting in and making friends. And for parents or teachers who are looking to open young minds to the world of Shakespeare, always remember that all the world’s a stage. Worry not about formal theatrical settings; Shakespeare can be brought to life anywhere with just his words.

Speaking of which: Remember the importance of “to thine own self be true.” Ask your students or children to think about this line. What does it mean to them? How can they stay “true” to themselves? In these back-to-school days and beyond — at any age, in fact — these are eternal essential questions.

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