Supporting children during Coronavirus school closures

Expect things to feel a little more stressed

It unusual for families to spend extended time in close proximity to each other and it may be stressful at times.

Try to have a routine

Routines and predictability can lower stress levels. We all like to know what is going to happen during a day and children are no different. Perhaps create a daily routine together so that there is some consistency.

It's OK if the routine wobbles

Homes just aren't as structured as schools are and so it's normal for the routine to slip a bit. If creating and sticking to routine is causing more stress than it's worth, then its OK to be more free flow.

Don't try to replicate school

Home is home, school is school. It would be unrealistic to try to recreate a whole school timetable at home. Most children and young people will not want to do this, and pushing this is likely to lead to tension and conflict.

If children are working at home, try to keep work in one place

It's important to have a home-work boundary. Is there a specific place where children can do their work and then keep it safe? If there isn't a specific space, then perhaps encourage children to mark that work has finished e.g. tidying up and dancing to a song!

Help children communicate with their friends

Use Skype groups calls or WhatsApp.

Limit access to constant news streams

It can be tempting to have the news on the TV, Radio or Social Media all the time but such a barrage of information can be stressful for children. Set yourself times to catch up with the news, and then you can share the key points and highlights with children.