18 May 2020
This week is the first week of students and teachers after COVID -19 lockdown. As a teacher, I am excited, nervous and even scarred. Overall, I have a mixture of feelings. I am expecting the same feelings from students, parents, and caregivers for the school. And it is obvious.
The best way to reassure someone who is feeling worried about the transition back to school is to first listen to their concerns and acknowledge that their feelings are valid. Provide reassurance that whatever they are feeling is OK. As adults, we often want to rush in and fix problems or help to logically explain away the concerns. Focus on the feelings and emotions rather than on practicalities at this stage.
Some fear or concern about change is normal, and it is this degree of respect that helps us to make plans to ensure our safety.
Once your child/student has had the opportunity to tell you about their feelings, they can be encouraged to focus on what they can do to manage their concerns. Particularly with older children, a problem-solving approach can be helpful. Encourage them to generate a range of possible solutions to the problems they raise and then select the ones that they think will work best for them.
Provide as much information about returning to school as possible. It is likely that during level 2, the school may be somewhat different than it was before we went into lockdown. Sharing examples of timetables, physical arrangements and some fun activities that are coming up during the term will be helpful. Information about the precautions being taken by school staff to ensure the safety of students and staff is reassuring.
STAY SAFE STAY HEALTHY
"Actively contribute, and work collegially, in the pursuit of improving my own and organisational practice, showing leadership, particularly in areas of responsibility."
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