We’re almost a full month into the new school year for fall 2021. How is everybody feeling? There’s no doubt that it’s been an emotional time for parents and children both, given that this is the third school year being affected by Covid-19 and related uncertainties, fears and challenges. We all want to do our part to curb the spread of the virus, but what has this done to our children’s education and well-being? What about the well-being of affected parents?
First and foremost, I should say that no one is stating that government regulations should be sidestepped or disregarded. They are put in place for a reason and, although there are differing opinions on the exact details of back-to-school restrictions (masks in the playgrounds? Cohorts? Staggered starts? Vaccination ‘passports’ for children? etc), I believe that everyone understands fundamentally that there has to be cautious integration heading into a fourth-wave.
Yet, these restrictions are only about Covid-19 spread and safety. My concern is that the childhood experience, including mental health, social interaction and self development, is not being considered. At the very most, these factors are being noted and just being disregarded. Social isolation for children and adults should be considered just as detrimental as the Covid-19 virus itself – there are acute and long-lasting effects. Here is a great article from SickKids hospital in Toronto with references to relevant research on the topic: SickKids releases new research on how COVID-19 pandemic has impacted child and youth mental, physical health
- Give yourself a break: This is never going to be a perfect scenario, nor will there be a perfect solution. It’s okay if you’re not always able to cope or if you need to give your kid some screen time to give yourself a break. Everyone is just doing their best.
- Talk to your child: Ask them what they need and how they are feeling. Take note of behavior changes. If they are isolated, what small steps would make them feel better supported?
- Ask yourself the same questions: Your mental health is just as important as your childs.
- Prepare to get outside: As the days get shorter and perhaps restrictions tighten, it becomes more important to keep the routine of getting outside. Multiple studies have demonstrated the importance of nature connection for mental health, meaning that just having fresh air, seeing trees or walking on grass can reduce stress levels. You can even do “indoor activities” outside (i.e. read a book, puzzles, etc.)
- Reduce screen time: Increased time spent on electronics is well known to negatively impact mental health and Covid-19 has only made this worse.
- Give your child and your body good nutrition: More than ever, ensuring that your diet is filled with whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains needs to be emphasized. These foods provide the building blocks to keep your mental and physical energy up while you cope.
- Ask for help if needed: Consider seeing a counsellor, a naturopathic doctor, homeopath, nurse practitioner, medical doctor or really anyone that you feel can build a connection with. Worst case, start a small support group with close friends and family, or one individual that you trust.
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