To say that our lives have been disrupted by the coronavirus is an understatement. All plans are affected. However, as we prepare to return to campus learning at Northbridge International School Cambodia, we know what a roller coaster of emotions our students are experiencing, and it is exhausting.
The way that we respond to our children's anxieties and worries will determine not only how they settle back into their new routine but also how they will respond to changes in the future. As a result, I would like to offer you some tips on how to handle some of the emotions your child may experience in the coming weeks.
1. How to help your child feel at ease when they are frightened to go back to school.
Have an open conversation with your child about what is worrying them and why they feel anxious. Reassure your child that it is safe to go to school.
We know that many parents had conversations with their children about the importance of learning from home to keep them healthy and safe. Some children may now worry about the safety of returning to school.
To help your child feel safe, have a conversation with them explaining that:
the decision to return to school is based on medical advice
children do not usually get sick from COVID-19
everyone at school is working hard to make sure that children are safe
anyone who is unwell will stay at home
the government is keeping an eye on things – if it starts to be unsafe, decisions about what to do will be made
reassure your child that it is normal to have mixed emotions such as excitement, relief, worry and anger
discuss what they are looking forward to and what they are worrying about
reinforce good hygiene practices.
2. What to look out for as your child starts back at school.
As well as looking out for signs of physical health, you also need to keep and eye out for signs of stress and anxiety in your children. It is important to let your child know that it's normal to feel overwhelmed and stressed at times.
If you feel that your child is in the process of navigating these emotions, please speak to your child’s advisor and or our Social and Emotional Counsellor so that we can support.
3. Let them talk.
Returning to school will mean that this is the first contact children will have had with each other in months. When they return home we know they will have a lot to talk about! Allow your child to recount their experiences of the day so that they can organise their thoughts and emotions.
Remind your child about the positives, in that they will be able to see their friends and teachers and continue learning new things. We cannot wait to have them back on campus, we hope you feel the same!
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