With so many relieved people going back to school on Monday, there are a minority who are very anxious. Parents, staff and children may be feeling worried about the first day back. However, we should remember the majority will just breeze back in as if nothing has happened! Here are 5 points to remember for Monday and the first week:

• Thinking about going back is worse than doing it – anxiety can often stem from your brain over analyzing a situation that hasn’t happened. Children and adults alike may be overthinking the situation. Once you start back, you will just be on auto pilot! Of course, children with additional needs may have heightened anxiety and may need extra support.
• All hands on deck to welcome the children and support children and parents who are wobbly – A welcoming committee of as many staff as possible will help alleviate concerns and support any anxious children back into the building.
• Be kind to yourself and colleagues. Take time to say hi to those you haven’t seen for ages and thank those who have been teaching from home/ holding the fort. 
• Ease them in gently and yourself. You may have already slimmed the curriculum, consider this if you haven’t but without children missing out on enriching activities. 
• Survey the children or have regular circle time to support SEMH of all children, but particularly those who have not had a positive lockdown experience. Some children that you don’t expect may now have SEMH concerns. Staff as well. Be sensitive to possible bereavements and listen out for safeguarding concerns. Seek SLT support where required.

Check out my Back To School: Behaviours That Challenge Prevention Checklist (Blog and Infographic) https://positiveyoungmind.com/back-to-school-behaviours-that-challenge-prevention-checklist/

… and also 10 De-Escalation Techniques With Social Distancing In Mind: https://positiveyoungmind.com/10-de-escalation-techniques-with-social-distancing-in-mind/

Thanks for reading!

Lynn