How Can I Talk to My Child About the Teacher Strike Without Causing Stress?
By Julie Diamond, Founder & CEO Diamond Teachers Group
Today, with 51,000 teachers across Alberta starting their historic strike, affecting many families, it’s normal for children to feel confused, anxious, or even frustrated. Many kids may feel extra anxiety because of the instability they experienced during school closures in COVID, and this pause in routine can bring up similar feelings.
Parents often wonder how to explain what’s happening while keeping their children calm and supported. The good news is that with thoughtful conversations, structure, and reassurance, you can help your child navigate this uncertainty and even use this time to strengthen learning skills and emotional resilience.
💬 1. Keep Explanations Simple and Honest
Children notice when adults are worried, so framing the strike calmly can make a big difference. Tailor your explanation to their age:
Younger children: “Your teachers are taking a break to ask for some changes that will make school better for everyone.”
Older children: “Teachers and the government are discussing important decisions about schools, like class sizes and resources. Sometimes adults need time to agree, which is why there’s a pause in classes.”
Avoid emotionally charged words like “fight” or “battle.” Emphasize that teachers still care about students and learning will continue, but just in a different way for now.
❤️ 2. Reassure Your Child About Their Teachers and Learning
Children may worry that teachers have “left” or that they will fall behind. Reassure them:
“Your teacher still wants you to learn and grow. We can work together at home to make sure you keep learning and stay confident.”
You can also encourage your child to express what they miss about school, whether it’s friends, a favourite teacher, or certain subjects. Validating these feelings shows that their emotions are important.
⏰ 3. Keep Routines Steady and Predictable
Routines give children a sense of stability, which is particularly important when school schedules are disrupted. Keep consistent times for waking up, meals, learning activities, and bedtime. Even small, predictable rituals, like starting homework at the same time each day, can reduce anxiety and help children feel secure.
📋 4. Address Learning Gaps Without Pressure
Some parents worry their child may “fall behind” during the strike. Focus on small, achievable goals rather than perfection.
Use short, engaging learning sessions: 15–20 minutes of focused work is often more effective than long stretches.
Incorporate hands-on or fun activities: math games, reading aloud together, or science experiments make learning enjoyable and reduce stress.
Track progress visually: charts, checklists, or goal boards help children see their growth, boosting confidence.
Avoid turning every moment into “school time.” The aim is to support learning naturally, not replicate the classroom under pressure.
🌱 5. Talk About Emotions Openly
Strikes can stir up feelings of uncertainty, boredom, or frustration. Let your child know that all these emotions are normal. Try:
“It’s okay to feel upset that school looks different right now. Let’s talk about how we can handle it together.”
Encourage coping strategies such as journaling, drawing, or physical activity. You can model calm problem-solving and self-regulation. Your approach teaches them healthy emotional habits. Sometimes, simple tools like creating art or spending time in nature are all your child needs to help manage their emotions.
Check out previous blogs I wrote about combining learning and physical activity or how to support your child’s mental health using art for some ideas.
💡 6. Focus on What Your Family Can Control
Empower your child by emphasizing actions you can take together. This could include:
Creating a fun, predictable at-home learning plan
Reading together or exploring hobbies.
Scheduling regular check-ins to discuss how they’re feeling
By focusing on growth, creativity, and emotional well-being, you turn this uncertain period into an opportunity to strengthen confidence and resilience.
✨ 7. Seek Support When Needed
If your child would benefit from extra help with learning or confidence, now can be a great time to connect with a teacher or tutor who can provide personalized guidance. At Diamond Teachers Group, our tutors are teachers who work with students one-on-one to set goals, close learning gaps, and build skills in a pressure-free, supportive environment.
With patience, clear communication, and structured support, children can navigate the strike with less stress and more confidence and return to the classroom ready to thrive.