Published: September 24, 2021
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This tip sheet is also available as a downloadable PDF in multiple languages on Colorín Colorado.
1. Check in with your child.
You can ask:
- How do you feel about going back to school?
- Is anything worrying you?
- What was a fun or hard part of today?
- Is anyone teasing or bullying you?
- Do you have any questions for me?
2. Keep track of how your child is doing.
Pay attention to your child's:
- moods
- feelings
- behaviors
- attitudes about school
If you see changes or have questions, talk with your child’s teacher or doctor about what you notice.
3. Create a new routine together.
Talk about how to stay healthy through:
- sleep and exercise
- good nutrition and hydration
- managing screen time
4. Encourage your child by:
- staying calm and supportive
- helping your child name their emotions
- focusing on positive things
- sharing why your child is special
- talking about why you are proud of your child
- drawing and writing together
5. Help your child address anxiety about safety and uncertainty.
If your child is anxious about safety or returning to remote learning:
- listen to their concerns
- share safety steps they can take
- answer their questions honestly
- confirm that there is still uncertainty around this school year
- share the information you do have.
6. Help your child address anxiety about separation.
If your child is anxious about separation from you:
- listen to their concerns
- practice short times apart
- create a good-bye routine
- send them a special note or photo in their backpack
- assure them you will miss them too.
7. If you need more support, look for it!
You can find out how to:
- contact school counselors or psychologists
- find resources to address stress, anxiety, trauma, or abuse
- connect with other families.
8. Share important information with the teacher about your child.
Tell the teacher about your child's:
- strengths and challenges
- ways of dealing with stress
- questions and concerns
- interests and talents.
Notes:
- You have a legal right to information in your home language from your school.
- Tell the school the best way to contact you and if your contact information changes.
References
Back-to-School Anxiety During COVID-19 (Child Mind Institute)
Source: This article originally appeared on Colorín Colorado and is reprinted with permission.
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