As schools return to in-person instruction globally, several changes are taking place. Kids are finding everywhere that desks are further apart, partitions are up around them, and recess rules are very different.

There is also the issue of masks. Many school districts mandate that all students and teachers wear a facial covering to help prevent the coronavirus spread.

What can parents do to help their children manage this transition?

The first step is to support their health. Taking vitamin D and using products like Neuroscience and Apricot Power could help to add strength to the immune system.

You can then follow these additional ideas.

1. Keep the Experience Positive

Children mirror their parent’s belief systems. Dealing with COVID-19 has been hard on everyone. When you’re honest about the reason why masks are essential, it isn’t as scary to wear them. This issue isn’t about politics or democracy. It’s about personal health.

2. Practice at Home

It may be itchy or uncomfortable to deal with the personal protective equipment that students may need to wear. Using the items for a few minutes at a time while still at home can help get everyone used to the experience.

3. Talk to Role Models

Although masks may be an inconvenience, plenty of people wear them each day for what they do. This habit happened before the pandemic. Have kids speak with anyone in the family who works in healthcare, emergency services, construction, and law enforcement about what it means to wear a mask.

4. Make Your Own Gear

Kids have more ownership over the things that they make. Letting them choose the vitamins, supplements, and PPE they want can make this transition easier.

5. Have Mints or Mouthwash

Wearing a mask means you get to smell your own breath all day. Having something to take the edge off, especially after lunch, can be helpful when getting through the day. You might consider adding a little lotion if the skin starts getting dry around the corners and edges of the mask.

Going to school in 2020-2021 will provide changes for all of us to manage. Taking these steps can ease some of the anxiety that kids face when returning to the classroom.