Supplies and tricks to make in-person learning easier for kids (and you)

First day of school (photo by author)

If your kids will be at school at all this year, I bet you’re wondering how you can help set yourselves up for success. With all of the uncertainty, this is a tough time. My girls have been physically back in school since August 20th. We’ve figured out a few things over the last few weeks.

School supplies that probably aren’t on the official list

• Masks (duh, hopefully): Don’t underestimate how many you will need or what type will feel the best for the duration of the school day. Our favorite have been the Old Navy packs.
• A lanyard or chain to hold the mask: You can get them for under $2 in the craft section.
• Mints: If they are allowed at school, it’s nice to have a freshener under the mask.
• Chapstick (for home): Masks can dry out your face.
• Hand sanitizer: Hands can be sensitive to publicly distributed sanitizer. Bringing your own also saves resources.
• Sunscreen: At least for my kids, this year has brought extra outside time.
• A water bottle with a straw: Drinking fountains are likely closed. Straws can be slipped under masks.
• A lunch: Hot lunch may not be offered.
• A book: There may be extra downtime as teachers are working through the technology or helping distance learners.
• A comfortable backpack: With protocol to reduce kids in the hallway, they may not have access to lockers. Consider getting a rolling bag if it is allowed.

Tricks for Fall 2020

1. Have kids try out different masks and practice before school starts — tie ones, adjustable ear loops, different fabrics, etc. Letting them pick the design is a good idea.
2. Add a disposable, wrapped-up mask that stays in the backpack as a back-up.
3. Pack at least two cloth masks plus the disposable to plan for a dropped mask or a change after snack or lunch.
4. Post a visible list of tasks and items to gather somewhere near the door. There are so many extras this year that it’s hard to keep track of everything. We also have a list for after-school in the hopes that dirty masks make it into the washer.
5. Get a family calendar and use your digital calendar to help keep everyone on track.
6. Use a white board to write out tasks and reminders for the next day, especially if activities have started up again.
7. Build in extra time in the morning. Even two weeks in, waking up has been rough.
8. Prepare for a few days of tired kids. Having structure for the first time in months can be exhausting.

This is obviously a weird and hard time in which no option is really ideal. As you prepare for the school year’s start, talk with your kids about how things may be different. At the same time, don’t underestimate their ability to adapt. We have had no complaints or resistance about mask-wearing or other additional rules this year. Even in this strange reality, my children are happy to be back, love their teachers, and feel engaged in learning.

Originally published at http://profkatiefoss.com on September 3, 2020.