8 Ways to Support Your Child This School Year

With the rise of the Delta Variant of Covid-19, both parents and teachers are concerned about the health of their children, as they make their long awaited return to in-person schooling. 

Here are some things you should know about the current status of Covid-19 and what it means for our kids in the near future.

Give students a safe space to to share their feelings

Activities such as drawing or playing can allow for your child to express their emotions in an environment that is comfortable to them. 

Listen more, talk less

Remain calm and listen to what your child has to say. Kids are very receptive and can pick up on the emotions of their parents. Validate their feelings and reassure them that things will turn around.

Recognize that anxiety is normal

Explain to your child that they are not alone, everyone feels anxiety, especially during a global pandemic. Emotions change, and that is completely normal.

Don’t hide your own stress

As stated earlier, children are very perceptive. Be honest with them and let them know when you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed. Normalizing healthy stress management at an early age will allow your child to better cope with their own stress for years to come.  

Give students time to adjust

It is going to take time for kids to adjust to in-person learning again. After almost 2 years of not being able to see teachers or classmates, they will feel unfamiliar with meeting all of these new people. Be patient and work with their teachers to find new ways for your children to be safe and to be comfortable in their new school setting.

Address Covid-19 fears honestly

With the Delta variant being much more contagious than the previous one, kids are being infected at a much higher rate than before. Cases of long Covid-19 have also increased in children as well. With this in mind, it is important to be honest with your children when they ask you about Covid-19. Give them accurate, age-appropriate responses. 

Vaccinate your children if they are 12 and older

Vaccines are still the most effective way to avoid catching any variant of Covid-19. If your child is able to take the vaccine, then you must do what is best for their health and get them vaccinated. This will give them peace of mind by knowing that they are protected. You can also encourage them by letting them know that they are also stopping the virus from spreading within their community. 

Stand self-care

Mental health is a large component of your body’s overall health. When your child is feeling unwell physically, you take them to a doctor. If your child is feeling unwell mentally, take them to see a therapist. Do your part to eliminate the stigma and really stress the importance of self-care and mental health to your children.