Returning to School After COVID-19-Information for Students
Even as you begin transitioning back to "normal" life, it's important to remember that normal likely looks different now, and it's okay to still be uncomfortable with that. It's okay to still be uncomfortable with that. It's also okay to feel a little out of practice or unprepared to be back in school after so much time at home. Here you'll find some information on how to cope with these changes and have a successful year.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
If you feel anxiety about COVID-19 and the pandemic, you're not alone. It has been a traumatic event for everyone. If the pandemic is still causing you to feel stressed or anxious, here's what you can do.
- Take deep breaths. Breathe in, count to four, and breathe out (repeat as needed).
- Practice mindfulness. Ground yourself in the "now" Notice the things you see, smell and hear.
Try guided meditation. With guided meditation, a voice helps you relax your body and focus your thoughts. Guided mediations are available on streaming services like Spotify, and on apps like Meditation Studio and Calm.
- Talk about it. In many ways, the pandemic was, and continues to be, a traumatic event and dealing with any traumatic event can be scary, frustrating, and isolating.
Talk about your feelings with a parent, your school counselor, friend, or anyone you feel comfortable sharing. Think about how you are feeling and label your emotions. It can be helpful to write about how you're feeling in a journal.
Get Back in the Swing of Things
Whether you're ready to jump back into in-person school again, or if you're still feeling a lag from so much time away, it's important to be kind to yourself and to others as we get back in the swing of things. Here are some tips for getting back into a successful school routine.
- Get organized. It might be a little tough at first to get used to your time being more structured again. As you make this transition, it helps to be organized. Use a planner to record assignments, tests, and appointments. Make to-do-lists and cross things off as you complete them.
- Practice good classroom and study habits. Get back in the habit of practicing study habits that support successful in-person learning. Participate in class discussions, use your study time wisely, and keep non-class discussions to a minimum or not all when you're in class. You've probably missed socializing with your friends, but when you're in the classroom, it's important to stay focused and on task.
- Be patient with your teacher. Like you, the faculty at your school went through something very stressful. Be patient as your teachers get back in the swing of things. Remember, we're a team, and we're in this together.
Stay Healthy
Continue to do the following so that we can all stay healthy and safe:
- Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds (State Alphabets).
- Avoid touching your face.
- Cough and sneeze into a tissue or your elbow.
- Stay home if you're feeling sick.
We're so Glad to have you Back!! Let's make this a great School Year.