Issued by the DES

Advice during COVID-19:

Back to school Advice for parents

Most students will be looking forward to going back to school and will feel happy and excited. Some may feel a little anxious about returning. That’s a normal response at a time of change. Most will settle back in soon once they get used to the new rules and routines. Remind them of the positive aspects of returning – like re-connecting with friends and re-engaging with school activities.

Coronavirus COVID-19 Public Health Advice

Everyone has been working very hard to ensure a safe reopening of schools for staff, students and their families.

New rules and routines to follow to keep everyone safe:

> Good handwashing and hygiene practice – important for all students. Make sure your child knows to use a tissue to cover coughs or sneezes or to cough or sneeze into their elbow.

> In senior primary classes and at post-primary – physical distancing procedures will need to be followed by all. > Primary school – younger children may not be required to practice physical distancing, but they may be organised into pods. There may also be new rules about drop off and pick up.

> Staff in all schools, and post-primary students, should wear a face covering where a physical distance of 2 metres cannot be maintained.

Advice during COVID-19: Back to school Advice for parents Coronavirus COVID-19 Public Health Advice

New rules and routines to follow to keep everyone safe: > Encourage your child to walk or cycle to school if possible and safe to do so.

> Teachers understand that it hasn’t been easy for young people to study at home during school closures. Remember, we all have a role to play in getting everyone back to school safely.

For more see gov.ie/backtoschool