As schools have started to reopen, children are likely to be
experiencing a range of emotions. While going back to school might be exciting
for many students, others may feel anxious or frightened, especially when
learning from home for months. And though the news of school reopening has
provided many parents with a sigh of relief, it also brings a fair share of
challenges.
If you are feeling the jitters to send your children back to
school, here's what you can do to support them when they are back to school
Going back to school was often stressful, even before the
pandemic came into our lives. Have an open conversation with your child about
what's worrying them and let them know it's normal to feel anxious. Talk to
them calmly about some of the changes they may expect at school. Remind
children about positives, that they will be able to see their friends and
teachers and continue learning new things.
Ease into the routine.
Going back to school after the summer holidays or online
classes can be stressful for everyone in the household. Practising the routine
a few days in advance can avoid the first day of school mayhem. Set the alarm
clock go through morning rituals, and get in the car or bus stop on time.
Establishing a solid school routine will make the first day of school much
smoother.
Meet the new teachers
How is the new teacher going to be? Will the new teacher
like me? These are always the biggest fear for kids going back to school. Try
to use any opportunity provided by the school to get to know their teacher, for
instance, a parent-teacher meeting or some teachers even welcome a phone call
or email. This technique might help in breaking the ice and calms everyone's
fear.
Connect with friends.
You might try calling parents from last year's class and
find out which kids are in your child's class this year. A familiar friend can
make all the difference when heading back to school. You can opt for a carpool,
or find out how their kids will go to school can also be very helpful.
Meal during the school day.
Studies show that children who eat a nutritious breakfast
function better. They do better in school and have better concentration and
more energy. Some schools have a canteen which provides healthy food if your
kids' school doesn't make sure to pack a healthy meal for your kid.
Good sleep.
It is a no brainer that sleep is a must for you and your
kid. Going back to school can change their sleep schedule, so a good sleep
routine like going to bed at the same time every night and avoiding mobile phones
and TV before going to bed creates a calm environment to sleep. Remember to
follow the same routine as kids are excellent imitators and get most of their
habits from their parents. Working on this schedule can be very helpful to get
the kids acquainted with their new sleep patterns.
Don't forget that children are sensitive to the emotions of
their parents. Therefore, you must take care of your mental health and theirs.
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