Lockdown is stupid, homeschooling’s horrid, open schools… but wait, are kids safe? Keep schools closed, homeschooling is okay…
The COVID-made pendulum of uncertainty seems to keep us swinging.
Constant bombardment of confusing information makes it near impossible to settle.
Some parents are feeling it keenly, with a flurry of concerns regarding the re-opening of schools.
Decision-making debates have probably expanded to include Uncles, Grannies and even your regular, supermarket cashier.
Yet the pendulum keeps swinging. Some posts on social media appear to increase the momentum.
These predict that our children will become traumatised, once exposed to all the changes at school.
I feel rather disheartened by this and, as a psychologist, prefer to offer positivity.
I cast out a shiny rope of suggestions in hope that it will help guide you to a firm anchor of decision.
My rope sparkles brightly with the belief that as a nation we are known to be tough survivors.
Our children have inherited this resiliency too.
Grab hold and take a couple of slow breaths to halt all motion.
Answer the following:
* How has your child responded to changes in the past (e.g. adapting to a new teacher) and to something negative? (e.g. a loss or big disappointment.)
* How has your child managed when learning new things? (e.g. a sport or game.)
* Ask what they think & feel about COVID and going back to school.
These answers seek to explore how they have coped and adapted. What their strengths are. They could provide some insight into your child’s resilience.
Expand the picture by considering:
* What has your child missed & what are the consequences if that continues?
* How have you & your child coped with homeschooling?
* Is homeschooling adequate & sustainable if all adults return to work?
* Can you still afford school fees & related costs?
* Consider your child’s & families’ health & immune systems Watch BBC video.
* Does the school have necessary safety measures & protocols are in place? Ask directly.
Ground the picture further with what is currently known.
Click for CDC info Use factual websites, not social media or opinion from your sister’s aunty’s cousin.
Talk to your doctor if you are worried; your child could too.
The schooling decision remains a personal choice. Use what you know about your family and reputable guidelines.
Accept we do not have all the answers.
Whatever your decision, do activate and cultivate our proudly South African resiliency.
Teach children how to find sparkly threads in all things COVID. Did you know you look like a superhero in that mask?
Shelley Hall is a Zululand-based Clinical Psychologist, PR# 0179981
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