Chaplain's Corner
Hi Everyone,
COMMUNICATION IS KEY
Transitioning back to school in the COVID-19 era can present some challenges for parents and children. Many parents have reported that learning from home has given their child the opportunity to work at their own pace. Many children have also benefitted from the 1:1 support which has helped with learning. The shorter school day and flexibility for rest breaks has also meant that fatigue has been less of an issue. Others just want to get back to school ASAP!
Returning to school comes with a mix of relief and excitement along with a new set of stresses for some children and parents. Your child might have worries about the virus, restrictions in place or their education and school. It’s important to acknowledge that this is a difficult time.
It’s important to give them the message that returning to school is a big thing and you understand that. Talk to them in a way that is sensitive to their needs – you will know your child best.
Communicate with kids
One of the most powerful ways you can support your child through the process of returning to school is by trying to understand how they are feeling about it. Find the right time to ask them questions to get a sense of what’s on their mind. Create space for talking in different ways, such as going on a walk together or baking together – there may be less pressure in these circumstances than when sitting face-to-face. (During my work with children I find they relax and open up about their thoughts and feelings when they are something they enjoy, eg play doh, colouring, lego, etc…). Try drawing a brain outline and divide it into large and small spaces, and ask your child to write or draw their thoughts/worries in the appropriate size spaces, eg if it is a little worry choose a small space. It works in my work.
Listening to what they are experiencing – and not criticizing – gives them an open space to talk about what’s going on or ask questions they have about the school year. For many kids, the more chances they have to be heard, the more likely they will feel comfortable to open up and talk. You could let them know whatever they are feeling is ok and assure them that you’re going to get through this together. Also, ask your child how you can work together to make this a positive school year.
Check in with them periodically. Ask the young person how things are going. Ask them questions like: what have they enjoy about going/being back? Any worries or challenges? Look at the positives – eg friends, teachers onsite, special activities.
KEEP UP TO DATE
Prepare your child for changes to usual school processes. Jake Laurie put out a message on KONNECTIVE yesterday, ensuring families of new guidelines as released by the education department and ensuring families that you will be updated as more guidelines are released.
MASKS – Make it fun! If you sew or have a friend who sews, involved your child in making a mask – choosing the fabric from old clothes or craft scraps. You Tube has a number of videos on making kids masks, eg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVNU-_YNB9A
Practise wearing them, putting them on and off, wear them inside, on walks, take selfies!
If your child is feeling unsafe, have conversation with them explaining that:
• the decision to return to school is based on medical advice
• 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
• discuss what they are looking forward to and what they are worrying about
• reinforce good hygiene practices.
• talk to your child about their day, including what they enjoyed, what they felt worried about and what they are looking forward to
• schedule extra family time as your child is likely to have missed being at home with you
• your child may feel more fatigued and will benefit from quiet activities to recharge.
REMEMBER!
MANY CHILDREN WILL ADJUST QUICKLY, DISPLAYING MUCH RESILIENCE, ESPECIALLY IF WE ARE POSITIVE, DISPLAY RESILIENCE AND ARE ENCOURAGING!
Also, all of us at ACPS are here to help! LET’S WORK TOGETHER!
I am looking forward to welcoming ALL our students back over the next few weeks.
So, take care and continue to reach out.
,
Robyn Mulholland (School Chaplain) robyn.mulholland@education.vic.gov.au)