What can parents and carers do to help ease their children’s transition back into busy school life?

“Even under ‘normal' circumstances, children returning to school often feel a mixture of excitement and trepidation. But returning to school in the context of the pandemic is likely to come with increased levels of anxiety and stress for many children. This is hardly surprising after months of being reminded about the dangers of leaving home and the need to wear masks, wash hands and stay away from other people. Having got used to being in the safety of their family home and spending long periods of time in the company of parents and siblings, some children will undoubtedly experience separation anxiety as they return to school. So, what can you do to help your child?

The first thing is to make sure you don’t display signs of separation anxiety yourself! Make sure you instil confidence and security in your child by getting them back into the familiar routines of getting up, dressed and ready for school, and ensure that it is done with smiles and excitement. You could also encourage your child to help you make a plan - a plan for dropping them off at school and a plan for picking them up again. Feeling in control of things will help them to readjust. Remember it is very important for you to stick to the plan and be on time for school pick up time! You could also try to come up with a small ritual - such as offer to let them take a special toy or a little treat to school - to give them something to focus on apart from you. But the most important thing is to give them your full attention at the time of separation - hugs, kisses and lots of reassurance - and let them know that both they and you will be safe and secure.”