How to help kids cope with school closures

With some UK children heading back to school we have tips on how to stay calm during this time as well as tips on helping to prevent learning loss for children still at home.

Back to school after coronavirus

An illustrated comic for children, to help prepare your kids for returning to school following being at home because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Back to school after coronavirus comic Colour in our back to school after coronavirus comic

6 tips you can trust

If your children aren’t going back to school yet you can keep their education going with our helpful tips for home schooling.

1. Set the stage

Give children age-appropriate information, so they know what’s happening and how it will affect them.

2. Stay on schedule

Keeping wake up time, bedtime and meal time consistent helps children maintain their daily rhythm and comforting routines.

3. Co-create plans

Give children a sense of control by involving them in daily decision-making, like choosing an activity or what they’d like for lunch.

4. Get moving

Counter inactivity by incorporating movement and physical exercise into your at-home time – designate outside or have a dance party in the living room!

5. Eat well

Spending a lot of time at home can lead to boredom and unhealthy eating habits, so pay attention to food quality and involve kids in healthy snack and meal preparation.

Did you know you are your child’s first and best teacher? Use school resources, books and educational websites and apps. Get creative by turning everyday moments into brain-building opportunities. Most importantly, have fun learning together!

10 Family learning activities

Reaching out to friends

Being away from your friends is hard. To help your children feel connected to their friends write a message of solidarity and share with other kids. Your kids can leave their message however they like: a written or painted sign held by the young artist, speaking to camera, drawing on condensation on a window, via fridge magnets…the choice is yours (and the writer’s of course).