Language and scripts parents can use in their back-to-school conversations with children during this Covid-19 pandemic. Plus, answers to common questions young children ask.
Learn
Throughout this uncertain period, it can be helpful to empower your child with language they can use in a variety of settings. During your ongoing conversations, we encourage focusing on key skills like being flexible, being kind and doing hard things, and talking openly about your family’s expectations when socializing outside of your home. Our key tips:
- Validate your child’s feelings.
- Be concrete and specific.
- Practice what to say and do with your child so they feel confident and empowered. This will help normalize social practices when they are at school and playing independently among friends.
Do
Scripts for Essential Skills
The following skills will be essential for your child during this learning period. Consider using this script to help build these skills.
In social settings (especially if your child is returning to school in-person and/or in an indoor setting):
| Essential Skills | What You Could Say to Your Child |
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On mindset (especially if your child is doing at-home learning):
| Essential Skills | What You Could Say to Your Child |
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Answers to Common Questions Children Ask
Try using this sample language to coach and support your child if they ask any of these common questions.
| FAQs by Children | What You Could Say to Your Child |
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In social settings (especially if your child is returning to school in-person and/or in an indoor setting):
| FAQs by Children | What You Could Say to Your Child |
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Consider adding for older children:
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If your young school-aged child is doing at-home learning:
| FAQs by Children | What You Could Say to Your Child |
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