Positive tips for kids returning back to school
Going back to school after any long break can be disruptive, but after months of lockdown, many pupils and parents may be especially apprehensive. In addition to concerns about contracting COVID-19, some doubt that children will adapt to new practices such as keeping their distance from teachers and friends.
Identify fears
Most children are optimistic by nature but may pick up on their parents’ anxieties. The anxiety about virus transmission is mostly an adult fear. Understand your child’s concerns and reinforce positive messages like: “There may be a nasty virus we can’t see, but if we wash our hands carefully, we can stay safe.” Be honest if you can’t answer a question and explain that scientists will find a cure for this new virus in time. While you can’t guarantee that you or granny won’t fall ill, tell them that you’ll take steps to avoid this. Some children might be anxious about leaving the safety of home and may need encouragement to reunite with friends and teachers.
Empower your child
Going back to school normally brings familiarity and routine, but things will have changed – there won’t be contact sports and playtime will be different. Support the steps the school has taken to ensure safety, and get your kids on board with the new measures so that they feel empowered. Sticking to the rules can be tricky, especially for younger children, so find out how the school will tackle any breaches and don’t overreact to transgressions. Instead reinforce positive behaviours, explaining how practices such as wearing masks keeps everyone safe.
Let your child debrief
Home should be a safe haven where your child can feel free to offload. Take time to be fully present to listen to their experiences each day, acknowledge their feelings and take an interest in their schoolwork – after all, in many families, the parent has, up until now, been the teacher. You can share about your day too, and establish a new norm for communication in your household.
Keep calm
Adjusting to the new normal is hard for everyone and generally, your children will cope as well as you do. Reach out to LifeAssist if you feel overwhelmed so that you are able to give your children the support they need.
https://www.jozikids.co.za/zaparents-blog/help-for-parents-braving-school/
Author: Dr Juliette MacLiam
