Returning to school after the coronavirus lockdown
Returning to school after Coronavirus
So after months of a UK and worldwide lockdown, the UK government is planning for a back to school after the summer come September.
As we begin to start thinking about children perhaps returning to school after Coronavirus its only normal for them and us to feel anxious as we emerge from this very unusual and unsettling time.
But what can you do to make this as easy as possible for your child… and yourself?
Its no doubt that the coronavirus outbreak and lockdown has affected us all. Not least in terms of our mental health – with reports showing increased levels of anxiety and stress.
So it’s important we get the next few weeks right – and set them (and us) up for success.
Here’s a few ways that can help us do that….
1 Be prepared
Read everything your school has put in place with your child so they can know what to expect as many things will be different than they remember. They may not even be part of the same class as some of their friends as class’s maybe split to enable distancing. Each school will have their own specific advice so be aware not all advice will be the same. Some schools ar eencouraging pupils to bring their own supplies and not schare and others are advising against bring a backpack at all. Our Primary here is also suggesting they wear a brand new unifrom everyday thats something you may need to think about buying extra school jumpers etc…
2. Listen
Take the time to listen to their worries
Many children will have anxiety about:
- leaving their parents and returning to school
- what happens if they catch coronavirus at school
- the safety of the families and siblings they’re leaving behind
3. Practice your routine
Most children (including mine) have had no routine for weeks on end, a lot of screen time and late nights and late mornings.
That means getting to school and staying awake all day may be an achievement for some.
Kids feel safer and less anxious – when they know what to expect.
4. Make them a back to school hygeine pack
Perhaps make them a packin a clear pencil case including their own hand santizer, wipes and face covering (depending on your school advice)