Back to the Classroom: A Game Plan for Reducing Anxiety

Back-to-school supplies were a bit different this year for the Falade family, as they prepared first-grader Dami to start school in Dyer, Ind.

Along with an array of crayons, pencils and paper, Dami needed a laptop, desk and chair for his classroom to be set up at home.

Dami, like many children across the country, spent the last school year in a virtual classroom interacting with other students and teachers only via a computer screen. This year, due to pandemic-related concerns, the Falade family made the difficult decision to switch to an online public school.

“The first week was rough! I was all over the place and didn’t know where to start,” said Olu, Dami’s father. Between working full-time and juggling the responsibilities of caring for a newborn, he wondered how to split the time between all the things needing attention.
“Planning and organization have to be there. If you don’t plan your day, you probably will not get anything done,” Abike, Dami’s mother, explained what has helped them.

“As students return to school, they face unique circumstances,” said Tawna Belk, an elementary school teacher in Kentucky. She cited mask-wearing, hand sanitizing and social distancing as some of these challenges.

But parents can help prepare their children for what may be a tough transition.

“If parents have a positive attitude at home, their child is going to be successful at school,” Belk said.

While coronavirus variants have stoked pandemic anxieties, the Falades in Indiana endeavor not to overlook other challenges their son may face. Olu and Abike encourage open communication, discussing Dami’s concerns throughout the school year. They also designate every Thursday evening as family time. As Jehovah’s Witnesses, they look for practical, Bible-based advice to help with any issues that may arise.

One of their favorite resources is jw.org, the official website of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Topics like “What’s a Real Friend?” and “From Sad to Glad” are addressed in a video series for young people that the Falades recommend to everyone.

“JW.ORG is a very good tool,” Olu remarked. Commenting on the animated series for children Olu continued: “It drives home some teachable lessons and principles, and it is fun while they are being taught.” In addition to the videos, Dami also enjoys the coloring activities for children.

Click HERE to watch a short video designed

to accompany the written story.