In short…
School holidays aren't always ideal due to disruptions in routines, posing challenges for parents, especially working parents. Children may experience learning loss and reduced social interactions during extended breaks. For families with limited resources, holidays can strain finances with increased childcare expenses. Parents may also struggle to balance work obligations with supervising children at home. Holidays can exacerbate inequalities, with some children missing out on enriching experiences. Additionally, prolonged breaks may lead to boredom and increased screen time, impacting children's physical and mental health. Thus, while holidays offer respite, they also present logistical, educational, and socio-economic challenges for families. In this blog, we discuss some tips from our team of educational consultants on how schools can empower parents to effectively navigate school holidays.
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Managing educational and emotional transitions between short and long school breaks requires planning, communication, and support from both schools and parents. Here are some strategies that can help:
Communication: Schools should communicate with parents well in advance about upcoming breaks, an annual calendar of dates can be a useful tool to help parents plan. Reminders a few weeks ahead can also help parents prepare and support their children effectively.
Provide Continuity of Learning: During short breaks, schools can provide optional enrichment activities or resources to keep students engaged academically, these can be art projects, reading challenges, logo designs etc., consider having a range of whole school challenges so children with different interests can participate. For longer breaks, consider offering free access to educational websites, online reading material and apps to prevent learning loss.
Encourage Consistent Routines: Maintaining consistent daily routines, even during breaks, can help children feel more secure and prepared for the transition back to school. Parents can establish regular wake-up times, mealtimes, and bedtime routines to provide structure during breaks.
Foster Emotional Resilience: Both schools and parents should prioritise supporting children's emotional well-being during breaks. This includes providing opportunities for children to express their feelings, engaging in activities that promote relaxation and stress relief, and fostering a sense of connection with their families.
Prepare for Re-entry: Before returning to school after a break, parents can help their children mentally prepare by discussing expectations for the upcoming term, reviewing any changes in schedules or routines, and addressing any concerns or anxieties the child may have.
Promote Self-Care: Encourage children to engage in activities that promote self-care and well-being during breaks, such as spending time outdoors, pursuing hobbies, and getting enough rest.
Provide Support Services: Breaks from school can be challenging for children who rely on routines, such as children with neurodiversity. Schools should ensure that support services, such as counselling or mental health resources, are readily available to parents who may need help supporting their children during breaks.
Encourage Reflection: Both schools and parents can encourage children to reflect on their experiences during breaks, including what they enjoyed, what they learned, and any challenges they faced. This can help children develop self-awareness and resilience.
If you would like to discuss further strategies for dealing with school breaks and breaks in schedule please reach out to a member of the team or book an emotional literacy consultantion.
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