I’m worried about my child going back to school

You may be feeling anxious about your child going back to school during the Covid-19 pandemic. Here are some things you can do to keep your family safe and manage your worries.

Your child’s school should have a procedure in place in case someone tests positive. If they haven’t shared their plans with you, contact your school and ask for information.

If your child feels anxious and needs extra support, contact their school. They should be able to work with you on a plan to support them.

Talk to your child about staying safe and washing hands, and how this helps everyone.

Make a new routine for when for when they get home from school to help you all feel safe. This could include having a basket inside the door for them to change out of uniform. Or ask them to wash their hands as soon as they come in.

Make a plan to help you feel in control. Take time to prepare for your child’s first day at back at school.

As well as taking steps to keep your family safe, look at how you can ease your feelings of worry.

• Focus on the positives in your life. Try writing down or say three to five things that you’re grateful for at the end of every day. See if there’s anything related to school in here.
• Take care of your mental health. Look at your sleep routine. Find activity that helps you relax. Do some physical activity.
• Talk to someone. Connect with your support network. They may be having the same concerns.

We also have advice for when your child is refusing to go to school.