Cody Nowostawsky, a Laurentian elementary school teacher, believes teachers should openly discuss ways to deal with stress and anxiety with primary school children. “It becomes even more important in grades 4, 5 & 6,” she says. “Teachers should let students know that feeling stress and anxiety during COVID-19 is normal. The main strategy will be to normalize their school life.”

Nowostawsky suggests explaining the benefits of physical activity, such as outdoor sports or games along with creative activities (art, painting, etc.) as a way to combat stress. “It is also beneficial for students to spend less time on social media, watching TV and listening to the radio,” she says. “It will be challenging for students and teachers to follow the new COVID-19 protocol; nevertheless students are excited to return school to see their friends and teachers.”

A long-time professor in business school at a Montreal university says that students and teachers know there will not be conventional classes for now. He says teachers will deal with students’ questions the best way they can.  He will break classes into smaller groups so students will have an easier time focusing.

Many professors will use PowerPoint presentations augmented by pre-recorded introductions and explanations. Visual and auditory tools can assist students to learn.  Initially it may feel a bit different for students and teachers, but many teacher hope that by using online tools such as Zoom, this will allow for easy meetings with students.

According to the Anxiety Canada website, here are some ways teachers can help students with their anxiety;
1. Validate, listen, and support students as they may be experiencing anxiety, disappointment or anger. Empathize with students.
2. Be honest and encouraging. Teach students to use realistic thinking skills and come up with their own solutions. For example, a teacher might ask, “What do you think you can you do to calm yourself down?”
3. Encourage a gradual approach, not avoidance. Facing fear promotes resilience and reduces anxiety by helping youth realize they are capable of coping.
4. Praise and reward students for being courageous. Let them know you will get through this together.
5. Model good coping behaviors for students – be calm, honest, and caring. How you handle your own fear and stress will impact how children assess their situation.
6. Take care of yourself and know your limits to maintain your own physical and mental well-being. Be compassionate to yourself as well as others.
7. Provide clear information to families as early as possible so that children and families will be less anxious.

Even though pandemic-related issues will create some anxiety for students, with the helpful and strong support of  parents and teachers, students should come through this on a positive note.