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The day is not far away when a smooth reopening of schools will be a reality with large number of students following suit. This much awaited news will make students jump with joy as schools are their second homes, while teachers and friends being their second families. But the question is, how do teachers tackle this transition coupled with the ‘new normal’?

How do teachers tackle the transition back to school?

Teachers have a big role to play once institutions reopen as they have grown a better bonding with students during remote learning days. Most teachers who have spent time over digital platforms, are of the opinion that they have never had such an insight into their students’ lives. It’s high time to put counselling skills for teachers into use.  As a teacher you can:

• Make your students to learn by example. Teachers should act as role models for schoolchildren who are about to familiarise themselves with the concept of ‘new normal’ in schools. This observational learning strategy will cut short the time required for adjusting to the situation and its immediate environment.
   
• Continue to build student rapport and knowledge. This will, however, take time and effort, like any relationship.
   
• Show your students that you care about them and is available to support them as per your limits. This may mean directing or supporting them if required (if they needed to see a counsellor or a psychologist).
   
• Consider reaching out if time and resources are available. Send them a personal note or just have a one-to-one session to see how they are going. Investing a small amount of personal time can make a big difference for the students and help them cope with the new normal.
   
• Remind students of the various day-to-day school activities that will remain unchanged and pointing out areas where change is going to be necessary (sitting arrangement, how often they need to wash their hands, or how to play with others keeping precautions in mind etc.). This will provide a degree of safety and comfort when they will step back into the classroom.

Importance of social-emotional learning (SEL)

The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic requires looking at personal interactions through the lens of trauma. With fewer conventional chances to socialize and heightened emotions, SEL is of utmost importance. Mental health and children’s motivation at school can predict their sense of belonging at school. While connecting with students, educators are advised to discuss and encourage the following:

• Recognizing emotions in ourselves and others
• Understanding the causes and consequences of our emotions
• Labelling emotions accurately
• Expressing emotions appropriately
• Regulating emotions effectively

Each student’s sense of belonging will be different and will vary depending on how well they cope with stress and change. Keeping a check on students is important during this time and teachers need to provide the support they need.