2 young girls wearing masks

Going Back to School with Confidence – How to Help Our Girls Successfully Transition from Holidays to the Classroom

Jan 28, 2022

As many of us navigate changing COVID-19 restrictions around the world, one undeniable reality is setting in: as much as we’d like to return to normal, that doesn’t appear to be in the cards for the beginning of 2022. This has left many parents, students, and teachers in limbo as they try to make the transition from their holidays to the classroom.

Regardless of whether your child is doing remote learning, in-person education, or a mixture of the two, they’re bound to have some anxieties and insecurities about the return to school. After all, most kids would rather spend time with family and friends at home than return to their studies. Combine this with the uncertainties brought on by the pandemic and you likely have one apprehensive daughter on your hands.

Today, we’ll talk about how to help our girls make a successful transition from their holidays back into the classroom, regardless of whether they’re learning in-person or online.

How Parents Can Help Ensure a Successful Return to School

The words and actions of parents have a huge impact on our kids. Even something as simple as asking your daughter about her fears or worries and letting her talk about them uninterrupted can offer a huge measure of comfort. After all, our girls just need to know that we’re there for them. Reassure her that it’s ok to ask for help and that no worry is too small.

After that, there are a few practical things you can do to help.

Talk about body image

An unhealthy body image is like mould. The more it’s allowed to sit in the dark and quiet, the faster it will grow. In contrast, bringing it out into the open and having honest conversations about it can make a hugely positive impact.

Don’t be afraid to bring this topic up with your daughter. Ask her questions about how she feels about her body, and let her know that any concerns she has are normal.

Educate yourself on what’s ahead

The pandemic has been incredibly tough on parents. They’ve been left to navigate a cascade of changing restrictions and in many cases are on call to help kids with school even as they try to work themselves. I know it’s not easy.

However, one of the best things you can do for your daughter is be informed on the changing restrictions, and what she should expect for the future. Will she be doing online learning? Will classes resume in person? What happens if she tests positive or has an exposure to COVID-19?

If you have an accurate understanding of what’s ahead, it’s easier for you to help your daughter navigate it for herself.

Set small, manageable goals

Going back to school after a break can feel intimidating. The best way to conquer this feeling is to set small, manageable goals that offer a boost once accomplished.

Sit down with your daughter and brainstorm some goals for the upcoming semester, or even just the first week. Let her guide the discussion, but don’t be afraid to offer suggestions. Write them down together, then let her cross them off as they’re complete.

Do a run-through of the first day back

Fear of the unknown can bring anxiety but talking through potential situations that could occur can help.

Before school begins, discuss what their first day back will look like. What time will they have to wake up? Will they have to wear a mask in school? Getting the answers to these questions will help them feel more confident. You can even rehearse it in real-time by going through the motions together.

Returning to school may feel intimidating, but with your help, you can offer the reassurance, comfort, and support that helps them succeed.

Looking for more ways to support your daughter’s education? Our work helps to encourage and support girls who may feel confused or fearful about school, friends, and everything in between. Together, we can help give your daughter a solid foundation that she can build on for years to come.