Back to School During COVID-19
With summer over and school almost back in session, we are not only adjusting to a new school year, but also to a “new normal”. How are our kids going to cope with these changes amidst the COVID-19 pandemic? Back to school is already hard enough to readjust to, it may feel even more difficult amidst a global pandemic. With all the stress of these new policies, changes, and preparation put in place, how can we support our kids?
1. Parents, let’s talk about your anxiety and worry first
Adults, we want to be a role model for our kids. How can we expect our little ones to keep their cool if we can’t? Be mindful of how you are talking about COVID-19 and back to school around your kids. Children will pick up on fears, concerns, or other strong emotions that we are experiencing, even if we think they can’t. If you are having a hard time, take some extra time for your own self-care, whatever that may look like (Anxiety Canada, 2020)
2. Have an open discussion with your kids about their concerns
Have an open discussion with your child about their feelings surrounding back to school, the new changes, and the virus. Ask your kids what they know about the virus, any worries about it or school, and any questions. Normalize their feelings of fear, frustration, and anxiety, offer solutions to any “what-if’s” they may have, and validate their feelings.
Say things like: “I feel sad too that summer is over”, “Feeling worried is normal, especially with all these new changes!”, “Sounds like you’re feeling pretty scared about seeing your classmates” or “Yeah, I bet it’s uncomfortable wearing a mask all the time” (Anxiety Canada, 2020).
3. Encourage and Reassure
Your kids may be sad or worried about going back to school after being told that we need to stay home to stay safe. Encourage your children that it is okay to play and socialize with their classmates and teachers. Remind them even though these changes may seem scary and frightening, they are safe.
4. Check in with your child frequently
Kids may be feeling more irritable, moody, or having emotional outbursts as they cope with their feelings. Please know that this is normal. Offer your child support by keeping an open dialogue with your kids as they readjust to these changes. Ask them how their day was, what it was like to wear a mask all day, what it’s like to have all these new changes. Keep it calm, casual, and be sure to throw in lots of empathy and validation. However, if they are not ready to or do not want to talk about their day, that’s okay. Try again later or tomorrow.
Sometimes our feelings of worry can get to a point where we may need extra support from a therapist. A therapist can offer guidance, tools, and education to help us with our feelings. If this is something that you think would help you or your child, contact us at Living Wellness Centre at 604-535-3335.
References:
Talking To Kids About COVID-19. (2020, March 25). Retrieved September 05, 2020, from https://www.anxietycanada.com/articles/talking-to-kids-about-covid-19/
