As teachers and administrative staff head back to schools starting today to ensure students have a smooth transition a week later, it falls upon parents to oversee if their children are well-equipped for the first day of school. This includes different aspects of their well-being like their mental, physical and psychological state.
The return to school routine can be difficult for both parents and children, as it requires the development of physical, emotional, and social skills that are essential for success in the academic environment, experts told Khaleej Times.
Dr Salman Kareem, Specialist Psychiatry at Aster Royal Clinic, identified several medical, emotional, and adaptive challenges that students face during this time.
“The main challenges include exposure to illnesses from entering new environments, interacting with other students and sleep disturbances caused by late-night habits established during holidays. Additionally, students encounter difficulties such as fear of forming social relationships and stress from transitioning from a period of relaxation and comfort to a more demanding routine,” he said.
Dr Kareem said that as schools reopen in six days to welcome students, children must adjust their routines to ensure an easy return to school. “Sleeping patterns should be adjusted weeks before the start of school, as well as encouraging open communication, enabling the child to express his/her’s feelings and challenges, and gradually implementing routine procedures similar to school, which contribute to preparing the child psychologically to return to school smoothly,” he added.
Kareem encouraged parents to eat meals together and discuss the day’s events, “promoting open communication and emotional support”. They must also try to assign children small tasks that can help foster a sense of responsibility and accomplishment.
He stressed upon how a supportive home environment is essential for a successful transition to school
Meanwhile, Liliane Kantar, a therapist at Aman Lil Afia Clinic Dubai, believes crossing days off the calendar helps prepare children for school.
“Using a countdown calendar can help children visualise how many days there are before school starts, reducing anxiety and increasing anticipation,” she said.
She advised engaging in learning activities such as reading books or watching videos of your children’s previous school activities to help them understand what to expect.
Dr Kantar assured that challenges vary from normal children to those with medical conditions and special needs. “For children with conditions such as asthma, allergies, or ADHD, returning to school may require adjustments to care plans or medication routines.”
“Work closely with school staff and communicate any medical needs of the student and update them on any developments in the care plan,” she added.
© Khaleej Times
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