Back to School: Preparing your child for school during the pandemic – KATC Lafayette News

ST. LANDRY PARISH — Back to school time is looking much different this year, as more schools are changing to follow safety guidelines during the pandemic.

Some school districts are going virtual, others a hybrid schedule of in person and virtual classes.

Some students will return to campus but with some safety guidelines in place.

St. Landry Parish public school students will learn from home with all virtual classes. For some, it comes with a learning curve.
Ruby Valary-Robert plans on helping her granddaughter with the transition of learning from home.

“I’m very old school, when everything was done by typewriters,” said Valary-Robert. “It’s a learning experience daily.”

She says being at home is a challenge for her granddaughter.

“She just misses being in the classroom because she loves her teachers,” Valary-Robert said of her granddaughter. “She loves being with people. It’s just she and I in the home and therefore she’s missing that interaction. That socialization to meet and talk with others.”

Child therapist Reginald Lemelle says it’s an adjustment for everyone.

“These kids went from being socialized with their friends and peers on a school campus and now all of that’s gone,” Lemelle said.

For virtual learning, Lemelle recommends parents create a schedule for their children. It’s a way keep them on track.

He also stresses the importance of letting them take breaks for physical activity.

Also, let them communicate with their friends through face-time or zoom meetings.

They can share their screen and watch movies together and also help each other with classwork.

Make sure to monitor to them while they’re online.

Share responsibilities with either your partner or whoever can help you at home.

“Take turns helping kids with schoolwork,” Lemelle said. “Utilize your older kids if you have them to assist with school work. If you find yourself being rigid or rough with the kids, know that’s when you start losing patience. That’s when you need a break. The kids need a break . “

Overall he says being positive and encouraging will make a difference for both you and your child during the transition. Something Valary-Robert is already practicing.

“We all need to work together on one accord,”Valary-Robert said. “We have to be positive and we can get through this like champs.”

Lemelle also offered some other tips for students, parents and teachers. Read below.

Students:
How could the changes coming with the school year potential affect students’ mental well being?

With the last school year cut short and anticipation building for the new year this will be a big transition for students. Parents/guardians, be aware that your stress can affect how your kids respond. Address their questions, but don’t give a final answer unless the school system made a decision and specifically answered that topic. You can read what has been decided so far by clicking here: https://www.katc.com/news/acadiana-schools

My kid is concerned about wearing a mask all day at school, what can I do?

Don’t talk about wearing a mask for 8 hours a day. If you have little ones, allow them to wear a mask in small increments, 5-10 minutes. Slowly increase their time wearing a mask as days go by. If they start panicking, have them take it off and try again the next day. Explain that you’re practicing for the school year. If you can, buy them a fun mask. Kids are always listening so if you’re disgruntled about having to wear a mask, your kids will most likely be upset as well and take those feelings to school.

How do I prepare for the differences students will see at school?

Remind kids that their teachers and friends will be wearing masks and keeping their distance like you may see at grocery stores. Practice a classroom setup at home and try to make it fun.

What to do if my child asks a question about school reopening, but there is no answer at this time?

Tell them you don’t know. Then meet with your spouse/partner and decide how you will answer your kids to be on the same page so there’s no added confusion. Kids are smart and they absorb information from home so don’t give them unnecessary information. Ask if they have questions about going back to school or questions about the pandemic. Using COVID-19 instead of the coronavirus might be more calming because coronavirus has been used so frequently. Lastly, speak to them according to their age level.

If a child feels anxious or depressed, what are signs to look out for and ways you can help them?

Parents are the experts. You can tell when your child is not operating like usual. If you see those differences, ask them about it. Try to maintain a lower tone of voice. Kids tend to mimic the elevation in your voice or they may shut down when voices get tense.

How to help my child when they feel lonely?

Allow them to connect with their friends through the internet, however limit screen time. Keep them physically active with a healthy amount of time outside. You can also encourage them to do homework with their friends, but you may have to monitor to keep them on task.

Parents:
I love spending time with my kids, but I’m mentally exhausted. What can I do to manage the stress?

Take a break. Take turns with your partner or other children in the house to help your kids with their school work. Sometimes it’s more difficult to teach your kids than someone elses. If you feel it’s safe, ask an older student in your neighborhood to come sit with your child and help them with their school work.

How to notice signs from yourself that you need self-care?

If you find yourself short on patience or acting roughly towards the kids, it might be time for both you and your children to have a break.

How do I manage the fear that virtual learning is not enough and my kids might fall behind academically?

This is a whole new landscape. Be patient with yourself and your children and seek help from your school board if you feel they need more assistance. While some kids may thrive in this environment, every household is unique. Do not give up, be hopeful and ask for help.

Teachers:
Any Advice for teachers feeling stressed with their new responsibilities and risks?

Ask your administration about their plan to keep you safe this school year. if you feel stressed, reach out. You are not alone. Teachers can benefit from connecting with each other, sharing their concerns and showing support to coworkers.

When is it time to reach out for further mental stress help?

If you feel like you’re struggling and you don’t feel like yourself, it may be time to reach out to your local mental health services.

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