Back To School Tips

Having spent so much time at home some children may find the
transition from front room to classroom daunting. So, in preparation for
next week’s return of children to school throughout England the NSPCC
and mental health charity Place2Be have produced some ‘back to school’
tips which you may find useful.

Sleep tight

• If
  your routine slipped during lockdown readjust your child’s bedtime so
  that they’re not tired when you get them up for school.
• If your
  child has a tablet or phone, make sure that they’re not using it close
  to bedtime as this will interfere with their sleep.
• Exercise
  and fresh air aid a good night’s sleep, so if your child is experiencing
  broken sleep or is feeling anxious, get outside in the great outdoors.

Talk and listen

• Talk to your child about how and why some things at school – such as
  lunchtime, playtime and PE – might be subject to different rules.
  Children are remarkably adaptable, but it’s worthwhile being upfront
  about the unusual situation in which we find ourselves.
• If your
  child struggles to express themselves, encourage them to draw, paint or
  write about what’s on their minds. Putting our thoughts down on paper
  can have a soothing effect and help put things into perspective.
• If returning to the classroom is making your child anxious, arrange to
  meet one of their friends on the way to school so that the two can chat
  before they get to the gates. Most likely, they’ll be so busy catching
  up with their mate that they’ll forget their nerves.

Advice
and support

• If your child seems stressed, show them Childline’s Calm
  Zone and explore some of the relaxation tips, breathing exercises and
  games on offer.
• If catching up on lost lesson time is proving
  difficult for your child and you’re considering hiring additional
  support, read the NSPCC’s safety tips for hiring a tutor before you do
  anything.
• Talk to a teacher or school counsellor if you feel
  concerned. Some parents feel embarrassed seeking mental health support
  for their child, but it’s okay to ask for help.

Charities that can help

The NSPCC

Place2Be

Childline

From the team at Martin & Co, stay safe and take care.