The transition between the extended break and going back to school might be a little difficult or even scary for children. After spending so much time at home with their parents and guardians, children might find it difficult to adapt to their former routines. Here are some tips to help ease the transition:
1. Set up a routine
Establishing a healthy sleeping habit will not only help the development of your child but also promotes healthier mental well-being.
On average, preschool children need at least ten to eleven hours of sleep. Lack of sleep may hinder your child’s ability to focus during school or make them feel restless at school. Hence, your child should be getting enough sleep to feel energised and ready for the day.
Your child’s sleep routine might be jumbled up during the Movement Control Order (MCO), therefore start implementing the routine as a practice 1-2 weeks before school starts. Wake them up at the same time every day and help them get ready until they can carry out the routine independently.
2. Talk about school
It’s crucial to speak to your child about what they think or miss about school. Explain to them that it’s normal to feel jitters and nervousness after not seeing their teachers and friends for some time.
Take your time to validate their worries and reassure that they will familiarise themselves with their classmates and teachers again. Ask questions like, ‘Are you ready to meet your friends and teachers at school?’ and ‘What are you looking forward to at school?’ Adjust your response to their answers.
Your positive reaction to their worries will help them understand that you care about their well-being, therefore they will become comfortable to open up to you.
3. Explain about the new normal
With the outbreak of the virus, we are now entering a ‘new normal’. We have to keep our face masks on, maintain social distancing, and practise optimum hygiene to not just keep ourselves safe, but our loved ones and the community safe as well.
Wondering how to explain to your child about the new normal? First, keep your explanation short and simple. Children comprehend information differently according to their age, hence, explain to them in ways that they understand best. In this case, help them understand why they must abide teacher’s instruction to sit separately. Explain to them what has changed at school, for instance, there might be a physical distance but they’re still able to stay connected with their friends.
If you can’t answer their questions immediately, say, “I’m not sure, let’s find out together!” instead of brushing them off or keeping them in the dark.
4. Ask them about their day
Make your child feel your presence in their social and academic journey by asking them about their day at school! By showing your interest in their school life, it will excite them to look forward to going to school and talk to you about it.
Engaging with your child can strengthen the bond and feelings of connectedness between parents and their child. Take some time to help your child with their homework. Ask them some questions while you are at it. Slowly build up a conversation with your child by asking them how they feel about getting back to school or if they have managed to adapt to the new normal at school.
Easing back to school after the extended break can be difficult but with your support, your child will be able to overcome their nervousness and wake up every morning with a smile on their faces.
Are you looking for a preschool? Look no further for Q-dees is here for you and your child!
Why Q-dees? Our award-winning Link & Think methodology not only builds a strong learning foundation but makes complex learning simple and fun by integrating the logical and creative mind to think intelligently, shaping your child to be the best they can be!
The safety of our students will always remain a priority for us, hence, sanitisation and disinfection are a frequent occurrence as all Q-dees centres are taking precautionary measures to ensure that the environment our students surrounds themselves are always clean.
The early bird catches the worm so enrol your child at Q-dees today!
Call us: 1700-81-5077
Find a centre here: https://www.www.q-dees.com/starters/find-a-centre/
Reference List
Talking to kids about the coronavirus (https://childmind.org/article/talking-to-kids-about-the-coronavirus/)
5 tips to help ease your child back into school mode after the holidays (https://theconversation.com/5-tips-to-help-ease-your-child-back-into-school-mode-after-the-holidays-129780)
Getting enough sleep (https://www.myhealthmylife.com.my/healthy-living/getting-enough-sleep)
How to get kids talking about their school day (https://theconversation.com/how-to-get-kids-talking-about-their-school-day-119837)
Tips for helping children understand the new normal (https://www.childrensmercy.org/parent-ish/2020/05/new-normal/)