Going to School after a Long Break

Sometimes, you haven't been to school in a long time, maybe because you were on a trip, or because school was closed. It can be hard to go back to school after a long break. In this story, Javi is away from school for a long time and then has to go back. He practices remembering what he likes to do at school to make him feel better. 

Grown-ups, try this at home! 

Did you try this with your child? How'd it go? Connect with us at [email protected], or on IG at @RealStoriesRealChildren and let us know! 

Tips for Caregivers:

• If it's been an extended break, such as a summer break, or if your child is going to a new school, it can be helpful to do a "practice run" and go through the motions of your morning routine and going to school so that the first day doing it is a little smoother for you and your child. 
• Having and practicing a solid goodbye routine (like a hug and a wave) that you do every time can be helpful with drop-off. 
• Sometimes the first couple of days back go smoothly, and days 3 or 4 are challenging - this is normal, as your child may be processing that they'll be going back to school each day from now on. 
• Your child might cry at pick-up instead of/in addition to drop-off in the morning. This form of emotional release is also normal!