Student Wellbeing 

Adjusting to Returning to School

With the many weeks of remote and on site learning some students will be excited to return to on site school and others may need practical and emotional support to adjust. Here are some tips to support you and your child:

1. Routine – we have all established different routines during lockdowns, including more screen time. To ease the transition to a regular school routine, make slow and gradual adjustments to bed/wake time so they are consistent. This includes screen time restrictions, and devices away – its important to discuss this with your child and provide explanations and listen to their perspective also.
2. Allow Time – adjustment may take time depending on how lockdown, remote learning has impacted on them. Some young people may be more tired after their return, less tolerant and more sensitive than usual. Big emotions may present at home, and I encourage you to gently coach them to consider healthy expression of emotions.
3. Acknowledge – acknowledging feelings is important for young people to make sense of them. Often through this and validation, a young person will feel a whole lot better. Problem solving with them through helping them identify what they can control, providing factual information on e.g Covid if they are worried, and reminders that adults are here to help them stay healthy is essential. Remaining calm and focusing on the positive aspects of returning to school can really help! This also helps young people to have empathy and understand that everyone has their own experience.
4. Friendships – as students have had different experiences during lockdown and remote learning, they will also have different feelings about friendships. Helping your child to understand others and the possible different emotions experienced is a great social skill! Remind young people to include those who have been more isolated and to be empathetic towards others.
5. Optimism – most children adjust well when faced with new challenges. Parents can prompt their child to identify positive things about school, funny things that have happened, enjoyable school events. As a parent/carer it’s important to reflect optimism and confidence as this is contagious!
   
    

And importantly if you do observe any concerning and sustained changes in your young person’s behaviour please speak with their House Leader, or your GP can connect you with support. Headspace is also a great resource!