From Distance Learning to the Classroom: How to Prepare Your Kids for Back-to-School

Kids across the country are stepping back into the classroom for the first time in over a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While there may be tears of joy from both kids and parents alike, even good change can be stressful. Whether your kids are excited to go back to school or are apprehensive about it, here are some tips that can help ease the transition.

Plan Ahead

Returning to school may look different than before coming out of a pandemic year. Depending on the school, classes may be taught outside or there may be some rules in place to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines put in place by the CDC. If you’re concerned about your child’s health, you’ll want to discuss precautions with them and relay any concerns to the school. Plan ahead by looking over safety protocols together so your kids know what to expect before they enter the classroom.

Have Open Discussions

Every child is different—some are loud and social, while others are shy and reserved. That’s why checking in with your kid’s mental health is so important. Make sure to chat with them about any anxieties they may be having before the first day of school. Addressing any concerns or fears they have with reassurance that everything is will be alright can help ease their minds and help them focus on learning.

Get Back Into a Routine

During the pandemic, your child’s regular routine may have dramatically changed. Get back into the regular swing of things a week or two before school starts again. Set consistent bedtimes, have your kids pick out their clothes for the next day and create weekly schedules. You can even create home automation routines with products like Cox Homelife to help keep things on track. Home automation allows you to set daily alarms for waking up, turning the lights on, starting the coffee maker and locking the door securely behind you. A consistent routine can help create the structure you and your kids need to start the school year off on the right foot.

Go Shopping

Nothing says back-to-school like doing a little shopping. Prep your kids for success by stocking up on all the supplies they’ll need, including pencils, planners, notebooks and a backpack. That way when school starts, they’ll be ready to learn.