The 2021-2022 upcoming school year may look different for many kids. Not knowing how covid has changed the landscape might leave you a little off balance. However, you can make a plan to navigate the new educational terrain and help prepare your child for the best learning experience.
- Have School Supplies Ready
Make sure your child has everything he needs for the school year. Be sure to stock up on hand sanitizer, masks, and tissues, etc. Check-in with the school to find out what they require or recommend. Make sure the items are ready to go before the first day of school.
2. Start an early routine.
Help your child get back into a school-year routine by enforcing a bedtime rule. Getting your child to bed early a few weeks before school starts can play a significant role in establishing guidelines.
3. Set up a Study Area
Let your child know that you have set up a designated study area. Set rules that the space is for schoolwork only. This preplanning will also be valuable if remote learning is mandatory in your area. Make sure the area is quiet and away from household distractions.
4. Preplan your Menu
Having a meal plan can make a vast difference for lunches and meals. Make a list of items that are nutritious and easy to pack. A list of diner items rotation can help eliminate the guesswork from what’s for diner. Make it fun, such as Taco Tuesday or Fish Friday.
5. Check-In with the Pediatrician
Planning for necessary physicals, and preparing for dental or eye exams can help save last-minute scheduling problems. It will also be a great way to help address any concerns your child may have regarding COVID that can help put his mind at ease.
6. Online Support Resources
Use online resources, like Smart Bubblegum, to help support your child to fill in the gaps, excel or challenge advanced learning no matter the subject, age, or learning pace of your child.
Finally, talk to your child about how the school will look different, such as desks far apart, teachers maintaining distance, possibly lunch in the classrooms. Explain how interaction with their classmates and teachers might be change as well. Frequently ask how your child is feeling and assure them that what they may be feeling is normal, while keeping the line of communication open with him.