3 post-pandemic back-to-school tips
As a result of the COVID pandemic, many children have been out of school for up to a year and a half. While remote learning helped them to keep up with their academic education, younger children in particular, have missed out on the social skills and self-esteem that being in a classroom helps develop. After a year off, all kids are going to need some time to get used to going back to school.
It's not unusual for children to be experiencing some anxiety about meeting their teacher in person, adjusting to the structure of a school day, and thinking about making friends in their classes. Parents can help alleviate their fears and ease the process by following the back-to-school tips offered here.
Keep these 3 simple tips in mind
1. Organize: Kids are out of practice with regards to getting up and getting themselves ready and going off to a physical school every day. You can help by providing ways they can stay organized. Make a daily checklist of everything they need to have in their backpacks, such as their pencil case, classwork, and a pre-charged tablet or laptop, if required. Packing a healthy lunch full of veggies and protein-packed snacks ahead of time helps everyone stay on time in the morning and provides kids with the energy they need to make it through the school day.
2. Plan ahead: Alleviate nerves about not knowing what to expect by attending orientations and viewing any interactive videos schools offer online. Some schools have created virtual tours and introductions to teachers so that kids won't worry about getting lost and meeting their teachers on the first day. Other online resources schools are offering, include Zoom chats with counselors, instructional videos on car drop-off, and how to get lunch in the cafeteria. Practicing good school posture and exercising regularly encourages strength in developing bodies; additionally, make sure that backpacks have strong straps for the best possible support. Planning for the next school day could also include putting clothes out the night before, packing backpacks and lunches the night before, and looking over the next day’s schedule.
3. Positive people: Remember to surround yourself and your children with positive people, get involved socially outside of school, and don’t forget to have fun. Rather than laser-focusing on getting your child up to speed academically right away, encourage them to think about getting involved in a club or sports team. Group activities are a good way to meet new people and feel a sense of belonging at school. Trust that the teachers and administrators are working on bridging any academic gaps that may have occurred during the pandemic.
Watch your child grow
Post-pandemic learning will look different than it did before the 2020-2021 school year. For example, the school may have accelerated catching up programs in place, which will be challenging. You can support kids at home by making sure they don't become overwhelmed by the social and academic demands of going back to school after a year or more of being at home.
Help them to stay organized and make use of all the tools the school offers for students re-entering a classroom environment. And don't forget to make time for fun, relaxing activities too! Check out these easy crafts to do with your kids at home for a nice break from the hectic pace of a new school year.
