Ease back in gently after the schools open especially as many of you will still be juggling online and home learning as well as home schooling your own children.

1. Give yourself time to adjust – it’s not quite the same as going back after a holiday. Our way of working has changed and who knows when it will be back to ‘normal’ (or a new normal). Don’t worry about things you can’t control. They will be decided by someone else so just focus on taking one day/week at a time and try not to plan ahead! 

2 . Children are adaptable – don’t assume all the children will return traumatised and need specific interventions. Hopefully the majority will just slot right in without a hitch as other countries have reported similar after they went back. Children are very adaptable creatures and may just need a little reassurance. Yes plan ahead for supporting children who need it and plan for regular PHSE but there’s no need to over egg it. Look out for children who are out of character as they ones who need the support may not be the ones you expect. 

3. Transition back to school – on the other hand, plan ahead for those children who you will be concerned about with the transition back to school. Ensure that systems are in place (such as a safe space and further back up) if the transition back is an issue. Children who thrive on routine may struggle in a classroom that is not familiar or going straight into a full school day. Use a phased return if needed starting at an hour a day and building up. 

4. Reluctant returners – similarly, if you have any school refusers or children reluctant to return, plan a phased return with parents and children. Write down a plan so the child also has a timetable. Some children will have particularly enjoyed this period and getting them back will be a challenge (also frustrating if you spent ages getting them back to school before the lock down started and now you are back to square one!). Also see: https://positiveyoungmind.com/social-and-emotional-support-for-school-refusers-8-ideas-to-coax-them-back-and-keep-them/ for further support.

5. Manage your expectations – keep your expectations manageable and focus on praising the children. Some will have done most of the work set, some none. This is a perfect opportunity for some project based learning where everyone had the same starting point and don’t expect too much too soon. 

6. PPE – no doubt your school has a policy on this and hopefully there is a degree of flexibility in what you feel comfortable with but also mindful of keeping everyone as safe as is practically possible. Keep communicating with your line manager if any issues arise. Your own health is paramount. 

Finally – seek support of your SENCO and SLT for yourself and your children if needed.