This archive report was first published on 23 June 2020.
Supporting Your Child's Mental Health as Schools Reopen Amid COVID-19 ¶
Published on June 23, 2020
Returning to school after a prolonged period of learning at home can be a daunting experience for children, especially during a global pandemic. As a parent or caregiver, it's essential to support your child's mental health and help them navigate the challenges of returning to school.
Children may feel nervous or reluctant to return to school, especially if they have been learning at home for months. Be honest with your child and discuss the changes they may expect at school, such as wearing protective clothing like masks. Encourage them to think about other ways to bond and stay connected with their friends and teachers.
Reassure your child about the safety measures in place to keep students and teachers healthy and remind them that they can also help prevent germs spreading by washing their hands with soap and coughing or sneezing into their elbow.
Remind your child about the positives of returning to school, such as seeing their friends and teachers, and continuing to learn new things. Encourage them to stay connected with their friends online and engage in safe and monitored use of online games, social media, and video chat programs.
It's also essential to gently check in with your child to see how they are coping with the changes. Engage them in creative activities, such as playing and drawing, to help them express and communicate any negative feelings they may be experiencing.
As your child starts back at school, keep an eye out for signs of stress and anxiety. COVID-19 may be impacting your child's mental health, and it's essential to demonstrate that it's normal and OK to feel overwhelmed at times. If your child is worried about bullying at school and online, let them know that they are not alone and they can always talk to you or another trusted adult.
