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Getting Kids Back to School: 8 Tips for a Successful School Year

You're back in the swing of things, and so are your kids. These tips will help you all adjust to this "new normal.

By KevinPublished 3 years ago 3 min read
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This past summer break probably felt like the longest one in history, and for good reason. Since most schools switched to remote learning in the spring, last year was cut short. On top of that, remote learning, alternating schedules and delayed openings this fall have meant kids are home longer than in the past. Despite concerns for safety, parents are largely ready for their kids to get back to the business of learning. For most, that means heading back to public school. These tips can help you set your kids up for success this school year.

Fuel Each Day

You tell your kids that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but do you listen to your own advice? If you are like most parents, probably not. Look for healthy and filling options that will give you the energy you need to power through the morning without feeling hungry and worn. Breakfast smoothies are a great grab and go option for when you have to get everyone out the door on a tight schedule. A lot of busy parents have found that the Thrive experience accomplishes that.

Meet Their Teachers

Even if your kids' schools are doing virtual learning this year, you still want to take time to meet their teachers. This gives you a chance to talk about learning outcomes and show your support for what they do. If you have to conduct a meeting virtually, try to carve out a few minutes alone where you can discuss any concerns you may have without the kids listening in.

Get the Supplies Teachers Ask For

School supplies can add up to a serious expense, but please remember that teachers aren't trying to make you miserable. They are working in difficult circumstances and with limited budgets. The truth is, teachers put supply lists together based on their planned curriculum and activities. So go ahead and get those supplies during the first couple of weeks of school.

Provide Appropriate Face Coverings

If your local schools require face coverings, make sure your kids have enough to change them throughout the day. Having their own masks means the fit and performance will be better, so kids will be more likely to keep them on. It also saves the school from the added expense of providing disposable masks. Look for masks with fun patterns or favorite characters to encourage proper use.

Buy Lots of Hand Sanitizer

Teachers routinely ask for hand sanitizer at the start of each school year, but this year that request takes on new significance. Invest in lots of hand sanitizer. Be sure to check the FDA list of recalled brands before you head to the store, It has been updated regularly with new products.

Upgrade Your Internet

Even if schools in your area have decided to hold in-person classes, there is a chance that things could change. Be prepared by upgrading your internet service to an appropriate speed. Everyone will be more productive and you can still sneak off to stream your favorite show when the kids are doing homework.

Set Up a Learning Space at Home

Speaking of homework, more school assignments are being conducted at home than ever before. Instead of having everyone gathered around the kitchen table, try to set up individual learning areas for each child. It may be a corner of the living room or a bedroom, but it should be someplace where kids can store their supplies, books and tech devices without worrying about anyone else disturbing them.

Get Involved

It is going to be harder than ever to stay involved and engaged with your child's classroom experience. Volunteer opportunities may be more limited and lunch visits are probably on hold for at least a while. There may still be ways to get involved. Reach out to ask teachers and school administrators what you can do to help.

Experts agree that kids benefit from attending schools in most situations. They provide access to appropriate instruction, healthy food choices and support systems, things some children would otherwise do without. Ensuring your child and her teacher has everything they need will get the school year off to a good start.

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