Hi Lovelies,
Change is often tough and this phase of schools reopening may be a stressful time for both you and the kids. But the good news is that when you come prepared, it makes all the difference right?
As lockdown restrictions gradually ease and some schools begin to re-open, being our kids’ support system alongside the schools, will go a long way to ensure that better results are achieved.
This pandemic brought lots of abrupt and sudden changes, especially for the kids who found themselves isolated at home, unable to go about their normal outdoor activities. Even a routine that used to be as normal as going to school, had to evolve into an online affair.
So the question is, ‘How can you prepare your kids for resumption post-COVID?
Be Equipped-The nature of school resumptions will vary from school to school, so it’s best to receive as much information as you can from your kids’ schools. Trust me, this is necessary to sort out any misconceptions and seek clarification if and when the need arises.
Restore Routines Or Establish New Routines- Readjust routines gradually because we haven’t been living in regular times these pas months and some routines like bedtime, play and feeding may have changed over time. Remember to factor these into the new routine in a diplomatic manner.
Sleep- Understand how much sleep your kids need. It is recommended that kids aged 6-13 years old should get approximately 9 to 11 hours of sleep, while teenagers should get 8 to 10 hours of sleep. Be on the lookout for some red flags that sends the signal of insufficient sleep – hyperactivity, increased voracious appetite, lack of concentration, tantrums.
Preparation– Teach your kids how to play safe, especially as they will be going outside the confines of their home. From wearing their masks appropriately to washing and sanitizing their hands regularly, no preparations are overrated. Plan your meals for the week ahead of time. Do some shopping and choose your items wisely. All these are necessary because kids feel reassured when they have an idea of what to expect.
Flexibility, being adaptable and focus are all important life skills and the pandemic period is a great period for harnessing these skills with the kids.
What about you? How do you feel about resumptions and what have your kids missed the most about physical schooling? Mine have really missed the social interaction and participation in extra-curricular activities with their peers.
A new school year can be uncertain and stressful, no doubt, but with realistic expectations and proper planning, it can also be exciting from the onset. Please share your thoughts.
