Back to the Classroom: A Game Plan for Reducing Anxiety

Back-to-school supplies were a bit different this year for Delaware students.

Along with day planners, an array of pens and a thick notebook, many are adding face masks, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.

“I’m feeling nervous,” admits 3rd-grader Evelynne Rogers, who attends Odessey Charter school in Wilmington with her 6-year-old sister, Ella. “I’m in a new building this year. And I’m not sure what it will be like.”

Evelynne and Ella, like many students, spent most of the last school year in a virtual classroom interacting with other students and teachers only via a computer screen. Going back to in-person learning with potential restrictions only adds to the normal anxiety students feel at the start of a new school year.

Educators around the country agree. “As students prepare to return, they will be facing a host of intensified challenges,” said Anthious Boone, an elementary school principal in Pennsylvania. He cited mask-wearing and learning how to socialize again with peers as some of these challenges.

But parents can help prepare their children for what may be a tough transition.

“As parents endeavor to help their children cope with potential back-to-school anxiety,” Boone said, “it is absolutely imperative that they stay well-connected with both the school and their children.”

Jonathan and Holley Rogers, from Newark, strive to do just that by freely communicating with their children’s teachers via email. They also use dinnertime every night to regularly talk with their daughters about their day. “We want to know how they’re doing and what challenges they may be facing,” said Jonathan.

As Jehovah’s Witnesses, the Rogers look for practical Bible-based advice to help with any issues or concerns. They find it at jw.org, the official website of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Animated videos, such as “Virus Outbreaks-What You Can Do” are both educational and entertaining. “This visual tool helped us emphasize the importance of handwashing and how to keep a safe distance. These things are easy for kids to forget,” said Holley.

While coronavirus variants have stoked pandemic anxieties, the Rogers have endeavored not to overlook other challenges their daughters may face.

The “Illustrated Bible Stories” feature is a favorite of the Rogers family. This learning tool brings Bible accounts to life and teaches practical lessons. “They help the children understand how to recognize dangers. Then, we use role-playing sessions to see how they would react to various situations,” said Jonathan.

Other topics like “What’s a Real Friend?” and “Beat a Bully Without Using Your Fists” are addressed in a video series for young people that the Rogers recommend to everyone.

“We want the children to feel safe when they’re at school, both physically and emotionally,” said Holley. “Having regular discussions and practice sessions helps boost their confidence and teaches them to make good choices.”

Jw.org also features an animated series with two main characters who learn valuable lessons based on Bible principles. “I like to watch Caleb and Sophia,” Ella said. “They help me to be a better friend.” Evelynne added, “They’re really fun, and anyone can watch them!”

Jw.org is a free tool, available to all.