Surviving the Homestretch of This School Year.

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As we begin the last leg of this crazy school year. Many students are returning to in-person learning, while others will close out the school year virtually.  We know that it has already been a strange and stressful year and that this transition means more change.  If your child is returning to in-person we know your family may be experiencing many adjustments this week such as new bus schedules, anxiety about being around other kids again, adjusting to new schedules, and more.  The youth that are remaining virtual may continue to experience social isolation and virtual burnout.  No matter how your child is ending the school year, we will continue to be here to support your family and our mentors. 

As part of that support we wanted to offer a few helpful tips to ease the anxiety of returning to the classroom, and the fatigue of the virtual learning process. Many of these tips apply to both in person and virtual students, but it is essential to remember that every child is different. Any effective coping strategy must begin with meeting a person where they are, regardless of their age. 

3 TIPS FOR HELPING YOUR CHILD COPE WITH ANXIETY 

1. Talk to your child about the way emotions can impact us mentaly and physically. Work together to develop and practice self soothing techniques they can use in school when they begin to feel anxious. 
   
2. Establish and maintain household routines. After school routines can be especially important, remove your mask, wash your hands, change into something comfy, can all help relax a child and possibly make them more willing to talk about their day. 
   
3. Be observant and a good listener. Understand and watch for the warning signs of high anxiety. Check in with your child regularly, listen and show empathy when they are willing to share. Do not hesitate to reach out for help if you or your child needs it. 
   

3 TIPS FOR MANAGING SCREEN FATIGUE AND ISOLATION

1. Take short breaks. If your child is finding it difficult to focus in the middle of the day, give them permission to take 3-5 for a brain break. Get a breath of fresh air, stretch it out with a few yoga poses, even a walk to the kitchen for a cold glass of water can be just what they need to refocus their attention.
   
2. Communicate with your child's teacher. Creating a partnership between yourself and your child’s teacher can help set your child up for success. Share your household expectations for virtual learning, and what you know works well for your child. Remember educators, parents, students are all working outside their comfort zone, but we can get through this together. 
   
3. Get outside! Especially with spring here, when the school day is over, shut down the screens, go for a walk or ride a bike with a neighborhood friend. Even during the school day you can open your windows, or better yet take your virtual classroom outside. 
   

We hope you found these tips helpful. Please don’t ever hesitate to reach out for support, we are here to help. Remember, at BBBS we are Bigger Together!