For many children, the in-person school has already begun or is starting soon – for the first time in over a year. After restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic and months of virtual learning, hybrid learning, or other atypical versions of learning, parents and school faculty are gearing up for a new scholastic year.<\/p>\n
Many parents may be wondering: How do we prepare our children? How do I prepare myself? Is my child behind in school? Is my child safe? Who do I talk to about this?<\/p>\n
All of these are legitimate concerns parents may have as they send their children back to the classroom. The answers may vary by individual, so we always recommend that you first touch base with your pediatrician. Your pediatrician<\/a> knows you and your child best.<\/p>\n However, there are several general recommendations you can follow to stay safe this school year.<\/p>\n The American Academy of Pediatrics, the nation\u2019s leading association of pediatricians, published updated COVID-19 guidance<\/a> in July 2021 for a safe return to school. As part of their updated recommendations, the AAP strongly recommends in-person learning and urged eligible students, teachers, and staff to get vaccinated. Learn more about COVID-19 vaccination for children from a TopLine MD Alliance affiliated pediatrician<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cWe need to prioritize getting children back into schools alongside their friends and their teachers – and we all play a role in making sure it happens safely\u2026 The pandemic has taken a heartbreaking toll on children, and it\u2019s not just their education that has suffered but their mental, emotional and physical health,\u201d said Sonja O\u2019Leary, MD, FAAP, chair of the AAP Council on School Health, in the recent release.<\/p>\n In addition to vaccinations, the AAP and the CDC recommend that everyone older than age 2 wear masks, regardless of vaccination status, as part of a \u201clayered approach to make school safe.\u201d<\/p>\n It\u2019s normal and expected for both kids and parents to feel nervous about being separated from one another, especially after months of social isolation. Whether a child is getting adjusted to a new classroom or if a mom or dad is having a harder time being separated from their child, your pediatrician can provide support during this time and help ease other anxieties.<\/p>\n Caregivers can also try a gradual approach to separation, such as leaving for greater increments of time leading up to the return to the school and commending children on independent behavior. It\u2019s also important to validate children\u2019s anxieties and fears, and reassure them that there are adults to support them at their new location, whether it\u2019s a classroom or other in-person activities.What The American Academy of Pediatrics Recommends<\/h3>\n
Mentally Preparing Children (And Yourself)<\/h3>\n
\nWhile quality education is important at every stage of a child\u2019s life, focusing on emotional, psychological, and social competency can get kids off to their best start in the new school year. The CDC recommends talking with kids about how the school may be different and help set their expectations. You can visit the CDC\u2019s website for resources and tips<\/a> for preparing for virtual, hybrid, or in-person learning.<\/p>\n