Back To School: New Routines & New Worries

By. Teresa Marchant

With so many unknowns, if you are like me, my stress level has increased 110% in the last few days. It is important to be aware of your emotions and keep them in check.  These are some ideas to keep your mind off the unknowns.

Breathe- take slow deep breaths in, and slow deep breaths out. This will actually calm you down faster than you realize. No wonder the age-old advice holds true even today, “take a deep breath”. I recently started yoga, here are some great deals on equipment for you and your classroom.

Take a walk. This is a great way to not only get exercise but take you away from your current situation. If you are in the market for new shoes or equipment, try these on for size.

Talk it out. Find someone you can confide in and talk it out, then let it go. Trying to rehash it over and over doesn’t do anyone any good.  It’s always fun to talk over lunch or dinner, too!

Routines! Amidst the chaos of starting the school year it’s important for you and your students to have routines and establish expectations. As we realize what we have control over we can put our energy into that. Think about how you will handle…

Use the bathrooms

Handwashing expectations

Classroom procedures

Recess and other areas

All teachers want to have a safe environment for our students to learn and grow.  By establishing these routines and expectations you are helping them to feel safe.  Some of these routines need to be explicitly taught and reinforced throughout the year.

I know I’m a little anxious about starting the school year, and I’m sure you are too! However, as I stay active, breathe, talk about these stressors, and establish routines, I am confident that I will have a great new school year in spite of any unexpected challenges.