As the school year approaches, I find myself eagerly anticipating the first day — not only for my own peace of mind, but also for my children’s well-being. They thrive on social interactions, guidance from adults outside of our home, and a break from being with us all the time. This summer, they’ve been enjoying camp, which has provided them with vital social experiences and the freedom to explore.
Reflecting on the past year, I realize how fortunate we have been to navigate the pandemic with relatively few issues. However, it was not without its challenges. I found myself juggling the roles of parent, teacher, lunch provider, and playmate, all while ensuring their basic needs were met.
Throughout the last school year, some children attended classes with masks and social distancing, while others engaged in virtual learning or were homeschooled. Now, many parents are preparing to send their kids back to in-person schooling. It’s important to acknowledge that alongside the usual back-to-school jitters, many children may also be facing separation anxiety, particularly those who have been away from the classroom for an extended period.
According to Stanford Children’s Health, separation anxiety disorder affects about 13% of children aged 9-17. It’s crucial to recognize that all children can experience feelings related to separation anxiety. With factors like masks, desk shields, and vaccination statuses in play, it’s no wonder these anxieties can escalate. As we help our children transition back to in-person schooling, here are some tips to make the process smoother for both them and ourselves.
1. Practice Patience with Yourself and Your Child
It’s okay if things don’t go perfectly on the first day — you might forget supplies or be late, and that’s fine. Allow yourself and your child some grace. Everything will settle into place eventually, whether it’s on Day 2 or Day 90.
2. Discuss What to Expect
While no one wants to dwell on school during summer, open conversations about it can ease anxiety. Take time to visit the school, play on the playground, or arrange gatherings with classmates to help normalize the transition.
3. Ease into School Routines
Creating routines is essential for alleviating anxiety. Slowly reintroduce elements of a school routine, whether it’s preparing clothes the night before or establishing morning rituals. This can help build familiarity and comfort.
4. Encourage Emotional Expression
Make it a habit to talk about feelings. Share your own sentiments about school and listen to your child’s concerns. Maintaining open communication with teachers will also provide a clearer picture of your child’s emotional state and help them feel secure.
5. Reassure Them You’ll Return
Validate your child’s feelings by reminding them that you’ll be back after school. Simple affirmations like “I’ll see you after school” can ease their worries. The first few days may be tough, but it will get easier.
6. Establish Healthy Routines
Use the summertime to prepare for the school year. Set the alarm for morning wake-ups, plan out outfits, and encourage your child to pack lunches. These small steps can help reintroduce a sense of normalcy.
Reintegrating into in-person schooling after a year of mixed experiences can be daunting for children. However, by engaging in open conversations and establishing routines, you can make this transition a little smoother. For further insights, check out this blog post and visit Intracervical Insemination for expert advice. Additionally, American Pregnancy offers valuable resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
To sum up, as your child transitions back to school, remember that every small step counts. Talk about feelings, establish routines, and communicate openly to make this process as seamless as possible.
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