Key Strategies to Help Your Child Transition Back to School During a Pandemic

Change is hard for all of us. Since the onset of COVID-19 in the spring, we have been in a constant state of flux. Families went from routines and always being on the go to sheltering-in-place in their homes. Overnight, work and education went from outside in, shifting from offices and schools to our kitchen tables. Therapy sessions moved home and telehealth became the new normal. We did kitchen kindergarten and remote therapy for a while before transitioning to summer. Now, as the days grow shorter and the aisles at Target are filled with bright yellow Crayola boxes, it’s time to think about school again. Transitions can mean challenges, especially when they are sprung upon us. As adults, we can work through them in our minds and approach them rationally. For children, it can be more difficult. They are not able to pivot as easily, and it can cause unrest or frustration. As you prepare to transition back to school in the time of COVID-19, here are some strategies to make the shift smoother. Communication is Key Even if your child is too young to understand what is going on with COVID, it is important to communicate what you can. Help them understand what will stay the same and what will be different as they approach the school year. Will they participate in in-person learning or will their classes be conducted remotely? Will masks be required? Address these questions and concerns well in advance of school starting to allow time for them to feel comfortable. A great way to ...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Children and Teens Parenting Students Back To School coronavirus COVID-19 Masks Source Type: blogs