Supporting your child in returning to school.
The following information has been compiled from a range of sources including the Victorian and NSW Department of Education, The Royal Children’s Hospital, Raising Children’s Network and Parent Zone.
After months of lockdowns and uncertainty, we are all feeling exhausted, anxious and frustrated. Our children are no different. Here is a list of things you can do to support your child as they return to school in the coming weeks.
- Be positive about the return to school
Promote positive conversations – ask what they like about school and what they are looking forward to when they return.
Your child might like to make a list or drawing about things they have missed about school. - Talk to them about how they feel
If they feel worried, help them understand this is perfectly normal, and that you and their teachers are there to support them.
Try not to share any anxiety you may have with them but give them a non-judgemental and supportive place to talk.
Younger children may not have the words to express their feelings so find a way to bring up the conversation without pressure, such as when out for a walk or whilst playing with them.
If your child has questions about COVID-19 provide factual and age appropriate information.
Let them know everyone at school is working hard so that everyone is safe. - Talk about the new rules / routines
Talk with them about how school drop off and pick up will look.
Discuss the hygiene measures that will be in place on their return.
Ensure you are up to date with all school communications regarding the return to school so that you and your child are prepared. - Allow your child time to unwind
At pick up time, allow your child some time to unwind after a big day back at school.
Provide opportunities for your child to play and relax at the end of the day.
Consider some additionally family time in the evening or on the weekend – your child may miss being with you.
Adjusting back to the school environment and a long day of learning may lead to emotional outbursts later on in the day.
Pushing your child to talk about their day may add too much pressure, consider letting them unwind before talking. - Get some rest and routine
During Lockdown you may have found your usual routine and sleeping patterns have changed.
In the lead up to the return to school, gradually shift back to your normal routine.
Ensure your child has a good night’s sleep for their return to school which may mean introducing an earlier bed time.
The day before returning, encourage your child to pack their school bag, and get their lunch box, drink bottle and uniform ready.
Allow more time than usual on the first morning back to calmly get ready – it may take some time to get back into routine! - Communicate with the school
Let the school know of any concerns relating to your child that may impact their transition back to school.
The school will work with you to plan and put in place appropriate support strategies.
If you or your child is struggling during this time – consider reaching out to support services.
Lifeline
Lifeline offers crisis support and suicide prevention services.
Phone: 13 11 14External link (Available 24 hours a day)
Chat online at lifeline.org.auExternal link (7pm – 12am AEST)
Kids Helpline
Kids Helpline gives young people aged 5 to 25 free phone and online counselling support.
Phone: 1800 55 1800External link (24 hours a day)
Chat online at kidshelpline.com.auExternal link (24 hours a day)
Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue can give you information and mental health support. All chats and calls are one-on-one with a trained mental health professional.
Phone: 1300 22 4636External link (24 hours a day)
Chat online at BeyondBlue.org.auExternal link (3pm – 12am)
EmailExternal link and receive a response within 24 hours.
Suicide Call Back Service
Suicide Call Back Service can give you immediate telephone counselling and support in a crisis.
Phone: 1300 659 467External link (24 hours a day)
Chat online (24 hours a day) at suicidecallbackservice.org.auExternal link
1800RESPECT
1800RESPECT can help you if you, or someone you know, is experiencing sexual assault or domestic and family violence. It’s available for all ages.
Phone: 1800 737 732External link (Available 24 hours)
Chat online (24 hours a day) at 1800respect.org.auExternal link
ReachOut.com
ReachOut is Australia’s leading online mental health organisation for young people and their parents. They offer trusted, relevant and easy-to-use digital self-help tools co-designed with experts and based on evidence. Visit ReachOut.comExternal link.