Preparing your children to return to school

In some families, children have been out of school for nearly 7 weeks now. This is a similar sized break to the annual Christmas holidays so for some kids it will be quite an adjustment to return to school routines. How your child goes will depend largely on their individual personalities and feelings about school but there are some things you can do that will put them in the best position to cope.

• Accept that all feelings are ok and are part of being human – we can all experience a mix of emotions about something and that is ok! Try not to stress if your child is not feeling or talking positively about school. Just listen to what they say and remain calm and accepting. It’s normal to for children to feel unsure or nervous about going back to school after such a long time away.
• Parents are the role models for their children. Demonstrate that you are strong and resilient during this process and that is what will be copied by the students.
• For anxious kids, talking through the steps of getting to their classroom can help – 'We get out of the car and go through the school gate. We then walk along the path to the classroom. We put your bag on the port rack and walk to the classroom door. We say hi to our friends and find your desk.' 
• The evening before your child returns, make sure you allow more time to settle before bedtime if they are feeling excited or nervous.
• This weekend, start moving your child back to their usual sleep and wake routines to ensure they are getting enough sleep. Kids who are not getting enough sleep will not be able to be as resilient either physically or emotionally.

Here are the optimal sleep requirements for school children according to age:

More tips:

• Talk casually with your children about school – What are you looking forward to most about going back to school? What are you going to miss about staying at home? Stay positive and encouraging.
• Start to consider with your child what they might like to have for school lunches. You could write a list of options and shop and cook some of the items on the list in readiness for the return to school. Baking and cooking [or buying] some treats together for their lunch boxes could be setting them up for a successful transition.
• Help your child pack their school bag the night before and make sure their uniform is ready to put on. A visual checklist can help them remember what they need to take. This can help make the first morning back go smoothly.
• Some strategies to reduce anxiety to try over the weekend – Belly Breathing (deep slow breathing -four slow breaths in and six counts breathing out, is known to help calm children and help them feel more in control); power pose (standing still, making sure heels and balls of feet are well grounded into the floor, with head up and shoulders back can make you feel in control) and practising gratitude (everyday you encourage your child to say three things they are happy for and that will put the brain in a positive mood).

Parents and teachers are looking forward to getting our children back to school. Working together on making their transition as smooth and calm as possible will ensure the best outcomes for our kids.

Have a great weekend!
Kath Sly
Guidance Officer