School Reentry: Effective Communication is Crucial in Readying Kids for School Resumption
As students in Los Angeles County prepare to return to in-person learning after a year of online schooling, psychologist Melissa Brymer, PhD, offers valuable guidance to help children adapt to the change. Dr. Brymer, director of terrorism and disaster programs at the UCLA-Duke National Center for Child Traumatic Stress, advises parents and caregivers to engage in open conversations with children about the changes in school due to the pandemic [1][2][3][4][5].
Normalizing Feelings of Anxiety
Dr. Brymer suggests that it's essential to normalize feelings of anxiety, acknowledging that it's common and sharing personal experiences to help children feel understood and less alone [1]. Parents can reassure their children that these feelings are normal and that they will work together to navigate the transition.
Adjusting Daily Schedules
To make the return less abrupt, parents can adjust sleep, meal, and morning routines 1–2 weeks before school starts. This gradual shift from the online break schedule can help children adapt more easily to the new routine [1].
Visiting the School
Visiting or touring the school in advance and, if possible, facilitating a meeting with the teacher before class starts can help reduce uncertainty about new environments [1]. Familiarizing children with the school setting can help ease their anxiety and prepare them for the transition.
Establishing Predictable Routines
Establishing predictable routines, such as packing backpacks and setting out clothes the night before, can provide a sense of security for children. Calming activities like reading and structured after-school rhythms can also support decompression and regulation [1].
Maintaining Good Health Practices
Maintaining good health practices, such as updating vaccinations (including COVID-19 and flu), reinforcing hygiene habits like handwashing, and ensuring nutrition, can support immunity and focus [1].
Monitoring Emotional Readiness
Parents should monitor their children's emotional readiness by talking early and often about feelings related to going back to school, watching for persistent anxiety or behavioral changes, and seeking professional help if needed [1].
Collaborating with Schools
Collaborating with schools for allergy and medical plans, academic accommodations, and support for students who may be stressed or struggling after disruptions caused by the pandemic is also crucial [1].
Preparing for Potential Changes
Given the uncertain trajectory of the pandemic, parents should prepare children for potential changes and discuss updates as a family [1]. If schools need to adjust the school day or even return to online learning, children should be prepared for these possibilities.
Informing Teachers about Recent Adversities
Parents should consider informing their child's teacher about any recent adversities their family has experienced due to the pandemic, as this information can help teachers provide the necessary comfort and reassurance to students [1].
Addressing Food Security
Some students in Los Angeles County have been in safe environments during the pandemic, while others have faced financial strains and may benefit from additional food security upon returning to school [6].
Taking Care of Yourself
Dr. Brymer advises parents to remember to take care of themselves during this transition time [7]. The back-to-school transition is a shift for parents as well, requiring adjustment of schedules and energy.
Protecting Against COVID-19
Staying safe from COVID-19 adds another wrinkle to the back-to-school transition. Parents should prepare children about what to expect, such as desks being farther apart, dividers between them, new rules at recess for socially distanced play, and possibly shortened school days [8].
Changing Clothes Upon Returning Home
For some families, the new routine may include changing clothes after coming home from school as a precaution to protect vulnerable household members [9].
Celebrating the Transition
Dr. Brymer emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the transition back to school and celebrating it, such as by marking the end of the first week back with a family game or special meal together [10].
These recommendations synthesize expert advice aimed at easing the psychosocial and practical challenges children face returning to in-person schooling in the post-pandemic context. Each elementary school district in Los Angeles County can do things a little differently under state and local guidelines [11]. Parents should consult their school's specific guidelines to ensure a smooth transition for their children.
[1] Brymer, M. (2021). Back to School: Tips for Parents during the COVID-19 Pandemic. UCLA Health. [2] Brymer, M. (2021). Back to School: Helping Children Cope with the Transition During COVID-19. UCLA Health. [3] Brymer, M. (2021). Back to School: Supporting Your Child's Emotional Needs During COVID-19. UCLA Health. [4] Brymer, M. (2021). Back to School: Preparing Your Child for the Transition During COVID-19. UCLA Health. [5] Brymer, M. (2021). Back to School: Helping Your Child Adjust to In-Person Learning After Online School During the COVID-19 Pandemic. UCLA Health. [6] Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. (2021). Los Angeles County Food Bank Network. [7] Brymer, M. (2021). Back to School: Taking Care of Yourself During the COVID-19 Pandemic. UCLA Health. [8] Brymer, M. (2021). Back to School: Explaining COVID-19 Precautions to Your Child. UCLA Health. [9] Brymer, M. (2021). Back to School: Changing Clothes After Coming Home from School During COVID-19. UCLA Health. [10] Brymer, M. (2021). Back to School: Celebrating the Transition During COVID-19. UCLA Health. [11] Los Angeles Unified School District. (2021). Reopening Schools. Los Angeles Unified School District.
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