Penny’s By Plaza Flowers has perfect Back to School flowers, plants and gifts!

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Back to School During a Pandemic

The pandemic presents new challenges for parents, teachers and students. Many research studies deal with the psychology of the teachers and their coping mechanisms. A great number of teachers are fearful for their lives and right fully so. There are many research sites that help teachers learn to deal with that anxiety and look for support.

Other studies center around the students and how best to help them deal with the pandemic and the effect it is having on their lives including their schooling. Normally this time of year, students are filled with the anticipation of seeing friends again and hoping for that special teacher that everyone wants to get. The one that makes you want to dig deeper and learn harder.

In this time of much concern it is important that parents and teachers unite to show their children and students a cohesive message of the facts. Young people are influenced by what they see so if parents and teachers focus on educating the younger people on CDC guidelines of washing hands and cleaning policies and less on fear, the effect will be positive for children.

Researching the numerous studies and advice that is given reveals several things adults can focus on:

• Teacher’s set the tone – This is true with adult behavior in general but in dealing with students who are already frightened, a calm and rational teacher tone will be comforting. Professionals recommend that teachers focus on the facts for the students and only share their fears about the pandemic with their fellow adult teachers.
• Information and communication –  In order for parents to feel confident regarding the safety of their child while he or she is attending school, it is very important that the schools provide consistent and ample information regarding how the school is enforcing stringent cleanliness practices to prevent the spread of  the virus. The confidence this gives the parents will carry over to how they interact with their kids.
• Dealing with age groups  – The younger the student is the less likely they will have a lot of anxiety. If their home life is calm and happy then they will feel relatively secure. However as students get older they are able to comprehend the gravity of the situation and may tend to be less at ease. Teachers and parents have to keep a close eye on children to watch for signs of aggression or mood swings. It is important to reinforce that social distancing is for the benefit of everyone and not just a restriction placed on any one student.
• Virtual Learning-  This is a new world for students and requires that teachers try to be flexible in their learning sessions. It may take students a while to learn the proper procedure for logging in. Then it is incumbent on the parents to provide a quiet place where the child can focus without distractions. Needless to say these are challenging times for everyone.

In these challenging times, every small gesture of thoughtfulness and caring can bring much happiness. One great gesture is to send a flower arrangement, green plant or delicious gift basket from Penny’s By Plaza Flowers. What a nice way to start off the new school year!

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