With a couple of weeks of back-to-school 2020 under our belts, our kids deserve a big round of applause! Rising to new responsibilities takes a lot of courage (especially when it requires you to wear a mask). From in-school, to local learning pods, to google classrooms, the efforts these kids are making are remarkable!
After being disconnected from their teachers and classmates for so long some kids are finding it a little hard to get back into the groove. Here are some of their common concerns and what we can do to help them make this school year rock!
In-School Student Challenges:
"There are a lot of new rules to remember."
In efforts to keep kids safe, schools have had to implement tremendous amounts of safety precautions in a very short amount of time, and getting used to new protocols takes time. It is important that kids are aware of what is expected of them and equally as important to know how to be patient with themselves. These new rules are new for everyone. After a little bit of time and consistency they will become more routine than rule.
"It's hard to read my teachers facial expressions."
Regardless of if a person is wearing a mask or not, most emotions read from facial expressions happen above the nose. In most cases, you don't need to see someones mouth to gauge how they are feeling. This is also a wonderful opportunity to remind kids to use and trust their own 'moral compass'; to help guide them through what feels right and wrong in their everyday experiences.
"I get a headache wearing my mask that long."
Most schools have implemented mask breaks for students and teachers. It is helpful for children to take advantage of this time and take some deep breaths. Check out last week's post for an easy breathing exercises for kids to do anywhere, anytime! Click Here
Virtual Student Challenges:
"I don't get to be with my friends."
This has been one of the most common complaints from kids over the last few months. Their fun has literally been masked and their socialization has suffered. Try and get creative with your kids as far as their friends go. Take advantage of the nice weather and use your best judgements for your family. This too shall pass.
"It's too much screen time."
.....Says no kid ever..until now! The amount of time children have to spend on screen during remote learning sessions can vary anywhere from 4-8 hours. During their sessions set 30 minute timers to remind them to get up and move around for a few minutes. If the weather is nice, have them go outside for brain breaks to visually take in some natural scenery. There are also several anti-blue screen glasses out for kids right now that can be a big help.
"My family seems stressed when I ask for help."
It's easy to get overwhelmed during these times, especially if you are also trying to work from home. Try and take a few deep breaths to center yourself before helping and remind yourself this is temporary. If things become too consistently challenging, hiring a tutor can be a wonderful solution. Check out one of our favorite virtual tutors and regular guest gardener on Camp Hello Gardeners by Clicking Here!
Wherever your kids are learning this season, encouraging them to 'pull their weeds' (talking about their concerns, fears and frustrations) is extremely important right now. Their social and emotional well being plays a very big role in their academic success. If you don't have a copy of our book yet Click Here
Our gardening team is here to help provide you and your family with tools and resources to help keep those gardens rockin' & rollin' all school year long!