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Back-to-school season is just around the corner and with it comes some familiar concerns around COVID-19. As students get ready to head back to the classroom, or resume their learning online, there are some important things to keep in mind.
We spoke with Dr. Tajinder Kaura, Emergency Medicine Physician, with contributions from Dr. Prasanna Seliah, Paediatrician, about how to prepare for this year’s school season with some helpful reminders and fresh advice to make the transition as smooth as possible.
First things first, establish a routine
Life with COVID-19 precautions is still new for many of us, but even more so for young ones going back to the classroom or starting school for the first time. Routines help bring structure to our day-to-day. Work with your family to rebuild sleep and meal routines and understand these may be different than previous years.
Build in time for daily self-screening before leaving for school. Refresh yourself on the symptoms of COVID-19, how to identify them and know when your children should be tested and stay home from school. Have a plan in place if someone in the household has symptoms and the others need to isolate at home.
Plan ahead but also build in time to be flexible
These days we need to take additional precautions and have more time to prepare when leaving the house. Give your child ample time to get ready. Make sure clean masks are available and accessible when they are heading off to school.
Additionally, school drop-off and pick-up may be different and may take longer than in previous years. Plan accordingly and leave extra time.
More than ever, communication is key
Create an open forum for your child to share any concerns they may have about COVID-19. Educate or remind them on all the do’s and don’ts when it comes to mask wearing and social distancing.
Normalize the measures we must take to keep ourselves safe and healthy. Masks, hand hygiene and other health and safety guidelines are part of our new normal and should not be feared. Take the time to educate yourself on your local Public Health Unit’s and school board’s COVID-19 guidelines and safety measures so you can keep your child up-to-date.
Address your child’s concerns openly and directly
Re-affirm that going to school is safe, but they will need to take precautions and follow directions alongside their classmates. Let them know what to do if they feel sick or if they feel uncomfortable or unsafe during a situation at school.
Feeling sick these days can be worrisome. Let your child know to always come to you if they aren’t feeling well. Communicate that colds and allergies happen, and that you will be able to take steps to help them feel better, get tested if needed and protect those around you. Good and frequent communication can help your child feel open to sharing.
It is also important to look out for any stories or signs of bullying in the classroom. Explain to your child that if a classmates coughs or sneezes, it does not mean they have COVID-19. If they are concerned, recommend they speak to a teacher or other adult privately.
Acknowledge and normalize your child’s concerns (and your own!)
Feeling fear or concerns around the pandemic is nothing to be ashamed of, both for parents and children. Work together to normalize these feelings and seek guidance or professional help if you need it.
If COVID-19 is causing stress and anxiety in your family, consider seeking help from a professional. You can inquire about how to access mental health assistance in your community by accessing the Ontario government’s mental health support resources.
Below are two helpful back-to-school guides from Canadian Association of Mental Health (CAMH):
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