The change from virtual learning to in-person learning for those who have chosen that option will begin Sept. 8. The change from learning at home and going to the campus could be difficult for children and parents. Check out the tips below for a little help with the transition.
- Getting the kids to bed on time will be more important than ever because of the routine change. It’s best to stay consistent with appropriate bedtimes. Also, remove electronic devices from their rooms at bedtime.
- Help children get into the habit of packing school bags and gym bags and laying out clothing for the next day before going to bed.
- Set a schedule for bath time designating who takes baths/showers at night and who takes them in the morning.
- Go through the kids’ clothes and shoes to determine what fits and what doesn’t. Take them shopping to replace and replenish wardrobe items.
- Get the list of required supplies from the school district and purchase early in case there are hard to find items.
- Purchase a backpack and lunchbox if necessary. Be sure to check with district about any restrictions.
- Create a calendar for keeping track of children’s school and extra-curricular activities.
- Help them create a calendar/schedule for keeping up with homework assignment due dates, to-do lists, etc. Search the internet for homework organization apps that might help them.
- Create an after-school routine that includes snack time, fun time and when to begin homework.
- Create a quite homework space with no distractions such as television and games.
- Visit the school in advance if possible, to meet the teacher and let kids see how to navigate around the building.
Don’t forget that first-time students are not the only ones who might experience stress and anxiety. The reasons, however, are different.
- Kindergarteners can experience separation anxiety, worries about routines (meals, going to the restroom, needing help) and concerns about what the teacher(s) and other kids will be like.
- Elementary-age children might experience anxiety about academic performance, worries about peer relations (rejection, teasing, bullying) and emerging concerns about race relations and political divisiveness, which continue through later stages.
- Middle schoolers could have anxiety about managing multiple classes, finding way around building, organizing work demands and worries about peer relations (more intense than in elementary school).
- High schoolers have the same concerns as middle schoolers but with increasing pressure to succeed, worries about life plans, choosing higher education and concerns about dating and relationships.
The first day at the campus can be stressful for children. Take their anxieties seriously. Let them talk about and work through their fears. Reassure them. Talk about how things will probably be on the first day so they will know what to expect.
Sources: www.community.today.com/parentingteam; www.healthychildren.org; www.care.com