Navigating Going Back to School Post-COVID
Supporting Children as They Navigate Back-to-School Transitions Post-COVID
The arrival of autumn signifies more than just changing leaves and cooler weather; it also marks the beginning of a new school year. For many children, this transition is a mix of excitement and apprehension. After enduring the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic and its resulting lockdowns, students face unique challenges as they return to in-person learning. While many children look forward to reconnecting with friends and enjoying social interactions, others may feel nervous and overwhelmed.
To ease this transition, parents can play a pivotal role in helping their children navigate these changes. Below are practical strategies that can foster resilience and confidence in children as they return to school.
Normalize Emotions: It’s Okay to Not Be Okay
Encouraging open communication is essential for helping children process their emotions. Remind your child that it is normal to feel a range of emotions, including anxiety, excitement, or uncertainty. Validating their feelings creates a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing their concerns.
Research indicates that children who feel supported in discussing their emotions are better equipped to manage stress (Psychology Today, 2020). Encourage your child to speak openly with you and their teachers about their feelings. For example, they might need assistance with finding their way around a new school building or managing academic challenges. Assure them that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Set Small, Achievable Goals
Transitioning back to in-person classes after extended periods of remote learning can be daunting. To make the adjustment smoother, parents can help their children set small, realistic goals for the first few weeks of school. These goals might include learning the names of their teachers, reconnecting with old friends, or familiarizing themselves with their daily schedule.
Small successes build confidence and reduce feelings of being overwhelmed. As noted by Futurity (2021), incremental goal-setting helps children regain a sense of control and accomplishment. By focusing on manageable objectives, parents can help their children tackle challenges step by step, fostering a positive outlook on the school year.
Attend Orientation Events Together
Participating in school orientation events is another effective way to alleviate anxiety about returning to school. Orientations provide an opportunity for students to familiarize themselves with their new environment, meet teachers, and map out their schedules. For students attending a new school, this experience can help them feel more confident navigating the unfamiliar setting.
Additionally, orientations often introduce parents and students to available support services, such as tutoring or counseling. Exploring these resources in advance ensures that children know where to turn if they encounter difficulties. According to USA Today (2021), understanding the support structures in place can ease both academic and emotional transitions for students.
Rebuilding Social Skills and Connections
One of the most significant challenges children face post-COVID is rebuilding their social skills and connections. Many children experienced social isolation during the pandemic, which may lead to feelings of awkwardness or hesitancy in social situations. Parents can support their children by encouraging gradual social interactions, such as arranging playdates or joining extracurricular activities.
Positive peer relationships are essential for emotional well-being and academic success. Research suggests that students who feel socially connected are more likely to thrive in school settings (Futurity, 2021). Encouraging your child to take small steps, like saying hello to a classmate or sitting with someone new at lunch, can help them rebuild their confidence in social settings.
Prioritize Mental Health and Well-Being
While academics are an important focus, prioritizing your child’s mental health is equally crucial. The pandemic has had lasting effects on children’s mental health, with increased rates of anxiety and depression reported among school-aged children (Psychology Today, 2020). Parents should remain attentive to signs of emotional distress, such as changes in behavior, sleep patterns, or appetite.
If your child exhibits signs of anxiety or struggles to adjust, seeking professional support may be beneficial. School counselors, therapists, and psychologists can provide tailored strategies to address these challenges. Early intervention can help children develop coping mechanisms and build resilience.
Conclusion
The return to in-person schooling post-COVID presents unique challenges for students and families. By normalizing emotions, setting achievable goals, attending orientation events, fostering social connections, and prioritizing mental health, parents can create a supportive environment that empowers their children to succeed.
Every child’s journey back to school will be different, but with patience, understanding, and the right strategies, they can navigate this transition confidently. As parents and caregivers, your involvement is key to helping your child adapt and thrive in this new chapter of their educational experience.
References
Psychology Today. (2020). Back to school after the shutdown: Helping kids and parents. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-man-cave/202009/back-school-after-the-shutdown-helping-kids-and-parents
USA Today. (2021). Back-to-school tips to help kids adjust post-COVID. Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/2021/08/01/back-to-school-tips-help-kids-adjust-post-covid/7940286002/
Futurity. (2021). Return to school: Teachers and COVID-19. Retrieved from https://www.futurity.org/return-to-school-teachers-covid-19-2569042/