If Your Child’s Return to In-Person Learning Has Been Chaotic, You’re Not Alone

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“My child can’t handle it! I can’t deal with this!” my nine-year-old daughter yells, launching her notebook across the room. She’s referring to her homework, and I’ve spent the last hour encouraging her to tackle it. The assignment is simply to write two sentences on an index card. It should take her no more than five minutes; she’s more than capable. Yet, as she insists, she just can’t bring herself to do it.

The issue isn’t the homework; it’s her anxiety.

Since returning to in-person learning after a year of virtual classes, her stress levels have skyrocketed. Truth be told, her anxiety was already significant prior to this. The initial lockdown in the spring of 2020 marked the beginning of a turbulent time for her regarding anything school-related.

She despised “shutdown school,” as we refer to it, where she struggled to complete assignments online while both my partner and I worked from home. Remote learning last fall was similarly frustrating; we eventually decided to homeschool her.

During her time in virtual classes, she would spend about half of her time completely disengaged, a quarter of the time in tears over her teacher not understanding her, and the remaining time curled up on the floor, sobbing.

Fortunately, homeschooling proved to be a more positive experience. She ended that school year feeling relatively happy, even amidst the COVID restrictions. Eager to return to in-person learning this September, she found the adjustment somewhat positive overall. Yet, she continues to face daily challenges with anxiety.

My daughter has always been a bit anxious, particularly about school. She’s a reserved child who takes time to adjust at the start of each school year. Mornings are often a struggle, with her frequently complaining of stomach aches or pleading to stay home. Deep down, she’s a mama’s girl.

Certain aspects of school work have always stressed her out; writing causes her significant anxiety, leading to writer’s block and homework-related meltdowns. Tossing her notebook across the room and procrastinating starting her assignments has always been a part of our routine.

However, since the pandemic, her anxiety has intensified tremendously. The transition back to school has been a significant adjustment for her. Just yesterday, she spent two full hours in tears over her homework, school stress, and even a minor cut on her finger. During her meltdowns, she often voices sentiments like, “I’m the worst kid ever. I hate my life.” It utterly breaks my heart.

Thankfully, she has a strong support system. The school psychologist, who has been familiar with her for a while, provides a safe space for her when she feels overwhelmed. We’ve also initiated therapy, and after three sessions with a Cognitive Behavioral therapist, it seems promising. I hope she’ll learn techniques to manage her anxiety, as I just want her to feel happy and balanced.

I know she isn’t the only child facing these challenges. Reports indicate that many kids are seeking mental health support in the wake of the pandemic, with some healthcare facilities overwhelmed by the demand. The school psychologist mentioned he is busier than ever, even starting a support group for children grappling with pandemic-related mental health issues. When searching for a therapist for my daughter, I found many practices completely booked, largely due to pandemic-related needs.

I want to emphasize that I fully support the pandemic restrictions intended to keep our children safe. While the isolation has undoubtedly affected them, protecting their physical health and that of their families is just as crucial as safeguarding their mental well-being.

However, one undeniable consequence of the pandemic has been the emotional toll on our children. The trauma is genuine, and it’s disheartening.

I believe things will improve for my daughter. She will adapt to school life again, learn to cope with her stress, and work through the past few years’ challenges. I’m committed to supporting her through it all, and I hope this experience ultimately becomes a valuable lesson for her.

Until then, navigating this situation is incredibly tough. If you’re also facing similar struggles with your child, remember, you’re not alone.

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Summary:

The article discusses the challenges many children face when transitioning back to in-person learning after the pandemic, highlighting increased anxiety and stress in kids. The author shares personal experiences with her daughter’s struggles and emphasizes the importance of support systems, therapy, and understanding the emotional toll of the pandemic on children. Acknowledging that many families are experiencing similar hardships, the piece encourages parents to seek help and reassures them they are not alone.

Keyphrase: Child anxiety during school transition

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