As children go back to school

Nursery, primary, and secondary schools across Nigeria have resumed for the second term academic programme. And, it is interesting that they are resuming after the Christmas and New Year celebrations, with sweet memories of home, food, and friends.

Most of them might have forgotten what was taught in the last term or the position they took in the class when the results were released. But a fresh start brings hope for the best. And, the best is what they hope for this term, which promises to be fun.

But what has been done by parents, guardians, teachers, schools, and even the government to prepare children for school? The school term needs to be properly prepared for to avoid failures for the students, unnecessary worries for the parents and guardians, and problems for the teachers and schools.

So, what can students, parents, guardians, teachers, and schools do to make the school term a memorable one?

A few days before resumption, parents and guardians should visit the schools of their children to know their current state. They should ask questions about their classrooms, restrooms, and other spaces where their children would learn and play in the school.

Students’ study areas should be reintroduced or created, and they should be clutter-free and organised to encourage the concentration and productivity of the students. They should also be directly involved in the shopping for their back-to-school materials. These activities build excitement and a sense of ownership of the school term.

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As schools resume, the pupils should be encouraged to reflect on good moments and memories through creative writing exercises and presentations. They should also be motivated to engage in conversations about what they look forward to in the new term or what they are worried or anxious about.

Parents and teachers should talk to the students about their academic and personal goals for the term. They should help and encourage them to set realistic expectations regarding responsibilities, chores, and extracurricular activities. They should also teach the students to embrace positive thoughts and affirmations, which would help with their mindset and boost self-confidence.

The schools and teachers should be more gentle and caring in handling the pupils in the first two weeks of resumption. On the other hand, parents and guardians should gradually introduce sleep time and mealtime routines a week or two before school starts.

No doubt, as schools resume, excitement and nervousness resume with them. However, with the right attitude and support, everyone involved in the schooling and training of children will adjust well.