Kevin Callahan
kevinc@isb.ac.th
Wow, it was just one year ago that this went out from the high school counselors:
The recent coronavirus and the media surrounding it has been the talk of students in and out of school this week. It is of course natural that the risks and the unknowns of the virus will create anxiety, particularly for children and adolescents who don’t have the capacity to process information and reason in the same way an adult would. It is more difficult for them to assess health threats and put news reports and social media posts into perspective. Our students are hugely resilient and able to navigate through change and challenges such as this one. However, it’s a timely reminder how important it is as families to check in with our children to reassure and process what is going on from the lens of our own family values and experiences.
Of course, we need to follow the official guidance provided, be mindful of hygiene and take normal healthy precautions as we would with any other virus…..
Seems like a lot longer than that, doesn’t it? Some of the information following that statement of a year ago remains valid as we move toward a new normal combined with renewed optimism about the future, such as
– Avoid overconsumption of media
Many news outlets, other sources of online information and social media overemphasize the problem and its accompanying risks. Limit consumption of media, especially around this topic and suggest or provide other activities for your adolescent to be involved in.
– Model a calm and measured approach
Children feed off their parents’ emotions. They will look to you for cues on how to respond to the situation. Talking to them about reasonable hygiene precautions and then confidently carrying on with your day is likely to be the best approach. Finally, remember all those usual healthy living basics of plenty of sleep, exercise and a healthy diet.
Schedules for school year 2021-22
Students have made their schedules for next school year and the system is ready to begin creating classes and sections. Schedules should be ready by May. Your student should know what classes they’ve signed up for, but if there is any confusion, contact your counselor and they will let you know what your student has selected.
Leaving ISB
On a separate note, if you are moving at the end of the year and applying to other schools, please contact Kuhn Fon at supanniy@isb.ac.th. Please turn in to the HS Counseling office at least 10 days in advance if any documents are needed to support the student’s application.