School is now back in session; however, due to the third wave of COVID-19 schools are to continue online teaching until further notice. It was hoped that schools would have reopened face-to-face, but the Delta variant has changed that with COVID-19 positive cases increasing daily. Hopes that vaccine take-up would result in face-to-face schooling have been shattered as vaccine hesitancy persists among teachers, and the Pfizer vaccine has only just become available for children 12 years and older. Given the current situation, these are the 5 back-to-school strategies for children’s success this academic year.
So, here we are again, another school term with more online learning for children. Hopefully, you have developed some strategies that have made this process easier for you and your child/children. Perhaps, you would have shared these tips with other parents or teachers, or you might have received some of these tips from others. If that is the case, you and your child/children are already off to a great start. If not, have no fear because, in this blog, I offer 5 back-to-school strategies for children’s success from an educator, Mrs. Alicia Findlay-Joseph, on what worked for her and her students during the pandemic and which she will implement during this academic year. She offers the following back-to-school strategies for children’s success at online learning this academic year.
1. Stick to the Routines
Children should keep the same routines they had before the pandemic, this may include having a set time for waking up, showering and having breakfast. Maintaining a routine for children provides them with structure and can be invaluable to their mental and physical health during times of uncertainty, such as experiencing a global pandemic. This back-to-school strategy will certainly keep your child/children on the path to success.
2. Keep it Moving
Students can engage in regular exercises and stretches at the beginning of and during the school day; this helps children stay active and focus. Lockdown measures resulting in online learning means that children are at the computer screens or on their tablets more than ever while engaging in less physical activities. Research showed that parents reported lockdown restrictions resulted in a 61% reduction in physical activity for their children. Incorporating movement activities during the school day for children is a winning back-to-school strategy for children’s success to help children remain focused and active during online schooling.
3. Just Breathe: One of the Back-to-School Strategies Children Need
Ordinarily, back to school can be a stressful time for children; however, coupled with a global pandemic that has continued for more than a year, it is understandable that children will have some negative and anxious feelings about going back to school online. This is particularly true if they had a frustrating experience of online schooling last year and were looking forward to getting back in the classroom and seeing their friends. We are all aware of the emotional impact of COVID-19 on children, and many parents would have noticed the changes in their children’s mood and behaviour since the start of the pandemic. Practising breathing exercises is a tool that will help children during moments of frustration or when they become overwhelmed by emotions.
4. Mindfulness: A Back-to-School Strategy for Children
Mindfulness is defined as being aware of the present; this means paying attention to what is happening in the present moment. Like breathing techniques, mindfulness can help children cope with stress and anxiety and is a good tool for children. Mindfulness also supports children’s critical thinking skills, improve their focus and bolster their self-esteem and confidence. We can all agree that giving children all the tools they need for success should be a top priority for every parent.
5. Find a Friend
Just like traditional face-to-face school, studying with a friend can be a vital strategy for success. I mean, we all remember that one friend in school who helped us out a lot. Encouraging your child/children to get a study partner is a strategy that can benefit school-work, homework and sharing of ideas. Additionally, it helps children keep in touch with their classmates and be a motivator for each other.
As children embark on a new school year, try these back-to-school strategies for children to help them succeed this academic year.
Did you see any of your strategies on the list? Or perhaps you have some you would like to share; comment below to let us know your thoughts.
Great blog. Wonderful advice Mrs Morrison.
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