Most Canadian jurisdictions have either already restarted in-person classes or are planning to do so for the 2020-2021 school year. Parents can take comfort in the fact that schools will be reopening with enhanced cleaning, sanitizing, and hygiene protocols in place. This means that you can focus on helping your child make the transition back to school in a safe and stress-free way.

How to Support Your Child This Back-To-School Season

Going back to school will likely take some getting used to, especially because things may not look exactly as they did before. But there are some simple steps you can take to help support your child and make their return to class a positive one.

1. Talk to your child about how they are feeling

Many children will no doubt be excited about going back to school, seeing their friends, and even doing schoolwork in the classroom rather than at home. Others, however, may understandably feel anxious. Take the time to sit with your child, ask them how they feel about going back, and reassure them that you and their teachers will be looking out for them.

2. Refresh your child on proper hygiene practices

Another way to help your child feel good about going back to school, as well as to help them stay healthy, is to go over basic hygiene practices. Remind them to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, and teach them proper handwashing technique. Children should also be gently reminded to avoid touching their face, as well as to cough or sneeze into their elbow to protect others.

3. Contact your child’s school if you have questions

You and your child might understandably have questions about what learning will look like in the new school year. This could include questions about class sizes, school schedules, hygiene measures, and more. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teachers, school, or school board to get the information you need so you can feel confident about your preparations.

4. Establish a new daily routine ahead of time

It can be difficult to get back into the swing of things at the start of any school year. If your child is used to learning at home, then it might present even more of a challenge. Give yourself a head start by establishing a new routine in advance. Start waking up and having breakfast at the proper time each day and set a bedtime that will ensure your child is well-rested.

5. Keep your child at home if they are sick

Finally, ensuring a safe and healthy return to school for everyone means keeping your child at home if they aren’t feeling well. The start of the school year often coincides with a spike in respiratory infections, so it is always important to monitor your child for the development of symptoms. This will help to prevent the spread of COVID-19 as well as other viruses.

While this back-to-school season may look a little different, the return to in-person learning doesn’t have to be a difficult one. Just keep these few simple tips in mind and it can be a smooth transition for everyone.