It’s September. The time of year when normally parents are excited about the kids being back in school, everyone is looking forward to Halloween and cooler temperatures, the kids are getting into the routine of school and sports. But it’s not a regular September. This is September 2020, otherwise known as the strangest year in recent memory.
All of us who have children or care for children are worried. We’re worried about what this school year is going to hold. How are the kids going to do wearing masks all day? How are we adults going to do wearing masks all day? Will the kids get sick and bring it home to grandma? Did I make the right decision to keep them home/send them to school? The uncertain part is that there are no right answers. Whatever you chose for your family is right for you, and it’s okay! A lot of us didn’t feel like we had a choice, and that feeling is valid, as well.
We’re here to support you during this strange and scary time. We’ll share tips and tricks we discover throughout the school year, but to start here are some ideas for creating a school-friendly space at home!
- Create a workspace for your child somewhere at home. This could be their own desk, a corner of the dining table, a lap desk, a coffee table, or the kitchen counter, but it should fit the child. A box under their feet can work wonders for comfort, as can pillows under their arms. To help your child’s posture, check out https://www.hss.edu/feel-better-article_posture-tips-for-kids-home-school.asp
- Folders or foldable display boards (think science fairs) can be used to create a bit of a privacy screen to help kids focus on their work. When not in use, they fold up nicely to be put away. This mom went above and beyond with this idea (but you don’t have to get so fancy)! https://www.facebook.com/12933364/posts/10108078003777600/
- Have a dedicated box, basket, or organizer for each child to keep their school supplies in. School may have taken over our homes, but we don’t have to let the supplies do so, also! https://thekrazycouponlady.com/tips/family/18-clever-ways-to-organize-school-supplies
- Speaking of school supplies, what do they even really need this year? Whether your kids are in-person, online, or a mix of both, money is tight for many folks this year. Here are some ideas about what is really essential: https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/13/health/school-year-essentials-coronavirus-wellness/index.html
- These websites have a some really nice ideas for caregiving during a pandemic, organizing our homes, caring for ourselves, and other pressing concerns. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/COVID-19/Pages/Parenting-in-a-Pandemic.aspx
https://responsiblehomeschooling.org/how-to-create-the-best-environment-for-covid-19-homeschooling/
We wish you well and hope you have a safe and healthy September!
