The back-to-school season is upon us again, and for many, it has arrived with mixed feelings of joy and trepidation. Things are a bit different lately as we prepare to navigate yet another school year amid a global pandemic. The usual back-to-school jitters are compounded with anxiety as many transition back to in-person learning with positive case numbers rising. Read on for some helpful insights on how to manage the uncertainties we are facing and help your children have the best possible school experience.
Maintaining a positive attitude may be easier said than done these days, but it’s one of the best ways you can help your child. Regardless of your feelings about your school district’s public health measures, focus on helping your child make the best of the situation. Attitudes are often contagious, so projecting a positive outlook will help them stay on the sunny side as well. If you are angry, frustrated, or anxious when discussing the school year, your child will mirror those feelings!
Many families may have only attended virtual learning for the last year and a half, so transitioning into a pandemic-era school environment is uncharted territory. This can make your child feel nervous, unsure, or anxious. As important as it is for you to know your district’s policies, it is equally important that you help your child know and understand them.
Go over all protocols and safety measures together, making sure to explain why they are necessary and how they can keep everyone safe. Helping your child understand the importance and purpose of Covid protocols will help them feel confident and self-assured.
Your child may experience a roller coaster of emotions as they return to a school where many things have been changed. The more you can help them feel in control of their situation, the better. You can do this by letting them be involved in decisions that affect them. This could mean having your child help pick out their masks for school, having them practice good hand-washing techniques, and reviewing school social distancing policies.
Sometimes we’re so caught up in the day-to-day rush that it's easy to forget to check in on our kids. Children tend to compensate well and may appear to be holding it together better than they really are. Here are some easy ways to keep involved and aware of how they’re feeling:
This is a stressful and unpredictable time for a lot of people, especially parents and children. For a lot of parents, their child's return to in-person learning was not an easy choice. In some circumstances, there were no other options. The pressure on teachers and school administration this year is intense, so be aware that they might not be as responsive as you might like.
Accept that this will not be a typical school year and that the main goal should be the safety and emotional well being of the children. Give yourself, teachers and school admin, and your children some extra leeway. Remember that all feelings are valid and worthy of discussion.
Counseling is a great way for both parents and children to express themselves, relieve stress, and learn coping strategies during these unprecedented times. If you live in California or Nevada, reach out to Medens Health for affordable, effective therapy from experienced professionals. We are committed to supporting you and/or your child through this challenging time. If you live elsewhere, you can search Psychology Today for a child or adolescent therapist in your area.
If you’re interested in affordable counseling in CA or NV, get started here or give us a call at (833) 624-5400.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical or mental health. If you don’t currently have a therapist, we can connect you with one who is qualified to give you safe, professional, and ethical advice regarding your mental health.
If you or someone you are responsible for is experiencing a medical emergency, is considering harming themselves or others, or is otherwise in imminent danger, you should call 9-1-1 and/or take them to the nearest emergency room.
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