To our Children,

We are seriously proud of you.

You’ve shown such resilience in an unprecedented and challenging time.

Never before have young people all over the world been forced to stay away from their friends, their schools, their daily activities, everything they are familiar with. And told to stay indoors, confined to the walls of their homes with only a virtual relationship with the outside world.

But you have.

You’ve adapted. You’ve done it. And you may not be aware of it, but your inner strength has grown yet another muscle.

And now you’re being told to do a great big U turn and head right back out there into the busy world of school life again. And we know it won’t be easy.

But just as you adapted to lockdown life (not once but twice, no less), we have no doubt that you’ll continue to show us yet more resilience by adapting yet again to this next way of life.

It may take time to settle, and things will seem a little different than before, but during the bumps in the road that may come in the following weeks, remember that you’ve done this before. And you can do it again.

There may be times this week when you feel that every other person in your class, your year, your entire school are flying high without a care in the world while you feel like you’re sinking. But everyone will be finding this challenging in their own way, whether they show it or not.

And if you do feel like you’re struggling, we’re here for you. To listen. To tell you it’s ok. To remind you you’re not alone.

Thankfully life is returning to normal little by little and there are now glints of light at the end of this strange unknown tunnel.

You’ll be able to be close to your friends again, discard those masks at some point, and look back and think, ‘We did it.’

Because you certainly did.

You’ve shown us what an incredible generation you are.

And we’re here for you every step of the way.

With all our love.

Your parents and carers.

xx

If you, or anyone you know, is struggling right now, please remember that it is totally ok, there’s nothing to be ashamed about and it’s really good to talk.

If it feels too much to talk to someone you know, YoungMinds have trained volunteers who you can reach out to confidentially at any time by texting free to YM 85258.

For any parents who are concerned about their child’s mental health, YoungMinds have a parent helpline on 0808 802 5544 – lines are open 9.30am – 4pm Monday to Friday. 

And of course S.H.I.T Tees (now in pink, black and white) and hoodies can be found in the S.H.I.T shop with 100% profit going to YoungMinds.