School is coming. It’s time to check in with your children

Back-to-school season is already stressful for many — now add the weight of a global pandemic. As coronavirus cases climb, it’s clear that Florida schools won’t be back to normal any time soon.

School districts across South Florida will start the new academic year remotely, and students can expect to encounter virtual classrooms — and the stressors that come with uncertainty. A recent Deloitte survey found that 66 percent of parents feel anxious about sending their kids back to school. Regardless of mask orders and social distancing measures, many students and families notice increased anxiety and fear about the potential health risks of contracting the virus.

Back-to-school season is supposed to be an exciting and exhilarating time for students. School usually is an outlet for children to connect with their friends and fuel their appetite to learn. Many kids anticipated the new school year and returning to face-to-face interactions with their classmates and teachers.

Now, imagine being a child and learning that you won’t be able to see your friends for an indefinite period of time — it can be a lonely feeling. For teens, the fear of missing out is even more critical. Cherished events like prom and graduation are milestones seniors look forward to during most of their academic years, and the fear of losing those moments is disappointing and anxiety-ridden for so many.

In addition to the anxiety of milestones lost, children and teens are concerned about the virus itself. Many children already exhibit separation anxiety and struggle with returning to school due to fears of losing their loved ones; coronavirus has only exacerbated these fears.

COVID-19 is menacing and overwhelming for many. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to mitigate the negative impacts of the pandemic on your child’s education and mental health.

Understand Every Child Responds Differently: No two children are the same, which is why your kids may exhibit entirely different responses to the pandemic. A recent survey commissioned by National 4H Council and conducted by the Harris Poll showed that seven in 10 teens are struggling with their mental health due to coronavirus. Of the 1,500 young adults polled, 64% believe the pandemic will have a lasting effect on their mental and emotional well-being.

Children with pre-existing anxiety or depression may be prone to having a more difficult time navigating life in a pandemic. For example, a child with anxiety may feel distressed by wearing a mask. Kids who struggle with depression or attention difficulties may fall behind academically and need your gentle guidance and support.

No matter what, kids are resilient and will adapt to changes in our temporary “normal.” Give them the time to work through emotions and be there to support them when needed.

Check-in with Your Kids Frequently: You know your children better than anyone. Make a mindful effort to notice shifts in their behaviors. What is the tone of their conversations? Are they contacting their friends? Are they more irritable than usual? Anxieties can also manifest in their sleep schedule, ability to stick with a routine, and how they follow along in the classroom.

Asking questions about how they’re feeling is an effective way to monitor your child’s adaptability to the pandemic. It’s OK to be open about tough subjects, like how they’re coping and what they miss most. Once you know how they feel, you can work to find creative and positive ways to address their needs.

Set an Example: There’s a delicate balance between informing your children about the risks of the virus and overloading them with facts that might send them into panic mode. Ask yourself what message you want to send to your children and make it a teachable moment.

Use this experience as an opportunity to introduce your children to coping skills like meditation and exercise.

Don’t Panic: It’s easy to feel paralyzed by negative headlines and unpredictability. Rising anxieties and feelings of dread can cloud your thoughts. In a time when we’re looking for answers and a way forward, being grounded can put you in a better head space to problem-solve.

If you’re looking to brush up on tips to help your children succeed this school year, Behavioral Health Associates of Broward, Counseling Centers of Goodman Jewish Family Services, will host a virtual panel discussion on Monday, August 17 at 6 p.m. to help parents and students manage COVID-related anxieties. Registration is at Register.gotowebinar.com/ register/8644034271250924045. Remind yourself that, like most challenges in life, this too shall pass.

Jessica Ruiz, Psy.D.

is the Chief Psychologist and Director for Behavioral Health Associates of Broward, Counseling Centers of Goodman Jewish Family Services.