This school year is going to be downright bizarre.
Disappointment, anxiety, excitement, apprehensionthe standard feelings weve all felt while riding the Coronacoaster.
Parents will really need to exercise specific empathy, Galvin says.
You cant solve every problem, but making kids feel heard will be very important.
Listening and being empathetic will look and feel a little different depending on your childs age.
Kindergarteners will know they feel bad, but will most likely be unable to articulate why.
Do your best to help them name their feelings.
Most importantly, let them know those feelings are not only heard but valid.
No middle schooler will say, I am having trouble making friends, Galvin says.
So check in with them regularly to better drill down to what they are truly feeling.
With your high-schooler, less talking and more listening is the rule of the thumb.
The older kids just need a listening ear, Galvin says.
With a new student, often comes new parents to the virtual PTA meetings.
One way to help your child become acclimated is to acclimate yourself, as well.
Whatever you’re free to do as a parent to get involved will be important, Galvin says.
Parents are oftentimes more ingrained in the social scene than the students are.
Exchange phone numbers with other parents, set up a group text, schedule some virtual meet-ups.
Ask the teacher for support
Teachers can also be an important bridge to a broader friend base.
We know kids are going to learn better if they have a connection to the teacher, Deichmann says.
Every teacher really wants to helpespecially when it comes to socially acclimating new students.
Everyones trying to navigate these new and uncharted waters, Deichmann says.
And remind them that being the new kid in school is also a clean slatean opportunity to start fresh.
Talk to them about how they can maximize this time of isolation by exploring a new hobby or interest.
Use this time to make something achievable.
Be the calm
Look, this aint gonna be easy.
But do your best to stay positive not only for them, but also for yourself.
Be the calm in the storm, Deichmann says.
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