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Today we’re hearing from Carole Swiecicki – a licensed psychologist and the Executive Director at the Dee Norton Child Advocacy Center where she works to prevent abuse, protect children, and heal families – about how parents can help their children manage the stress of returning to school amid the pandemic.

The pandemic, and the uncertainty around what the fall will bring for students and parents, is stressful. Any stressful situation can make children feel scared, angry, or confused (and sometimes, all three!). We, at Dee Norton Child Advocacy Center, know from years of helping children and families manage the stress associated with abuse that there are key actions parents can take to help your child and family through this.

First, take care of yourself. Acknowledge your own feelings, make time to talk with other adults about them and cope with them in healthy ways (deep breathing, taking walks, and/or talking with a professional).

Next, open the conversation with your child. Talk with them about what is happening with school – whether they will be online at first, whether they and their teachers will wear masks at school, etc. Include what will be the same – their interactions with friends, familiar play equipment or teachers. Be honest, including stating you do not know if the answer is uncertain. Reassure them that the adults in their lives are looking at the risks and making decisions to keep everyone safe.

Although families need to stay informed, limit exposure to media outlets or social media that might promote fear or panic. Be particularly aware of (and limit) how much media coverage or social media time children are exposed to about the outbreak or school changes.

Lastly, keep to a regular family routine as much as possible. A lot of change at one time can overwhelm children. When school starts, virtually or in person, make sure that the family keeps to a routine and children get enough sleep, eat regularly, drink plenty of water and get frequent exercise.

Check out some additional tips, tricks + resources from the community to parents of students here.