A MESSAGE FROM MS JEN

How to support your child and their friendships during lockdown

The current lockdown has affected all of our relationships. Helping our children keep in touch with friends during this time is a challenge. We can let them text, whatsapp, and Zoom, but our children need real social interaction to grow. 

“One of the key skills of childhood is relationship-building,” according to pediatrician Cara Natterson, MD. “Learning how to interact with others is an important foundation for success.”

Coping skills for loneliness

Sometimes you can try to do everything right but your child will still feel lonely. Virtual friendships are hard. A mum shared with me her young daughter’s frustration: “She started to cry on a Zoom call because her friend kept running off-camera. I had to explain to her that her friend was trying to go to a spot in her room to share things but couldn’t.”

Encourage your child to reach out to you, friends, and even grandparents to talk. Spend some time in the house doing things a bit differently. Rather than watch television, grab a big puzzle and make it a family endeavor to put it together. The challenge and connection can help children cope with loneliness, especially if they are playing alone. 

Our school is also here to support you and your family. Feel welcome to reach out if your child needs additional support. We are a caring community, and we look out for one another.