How to prepare your kids for school after the pandemic lockdown

  (photo credit: INGIMAGE)
(photo credit: INGIMAGE)

The Pandemic brought a complete change in our way of life as people around the globe were forced inside their homes. While adults worked remotely from home and carried out Zoom meetings, children had to adjust to the new way of learning online. But now that things are slowly turning back to normal and schools are again opening their doors for the pupils, it’s time for parents to prepare their kids adequately. Read on to know the main things that parents need in preparation for sending their kids back to school.

Have Your Kids Socialize MoreChildren have spent a lot of time inside with only their parents to interact with. Online interaction can never match the warmth of face-to-face meetups. Now that the kids are ready to go back to school, parents need to ensure that they remain socially active. Parents can organize small parties in their house while inviting other kids over and helping them interact. Be very cautious and should follow proper safety protocols when organizing a playdate. Alternatively, you can ask fellow parents to bring their kids to a nearby park and let the young ones mingle by going on walks or riding bikes together. During these gatherings, they need to wear masks and maintain social distancing. 

Restock on School SuppliesGoing back to school would means school supplies like notebooks, backpacks, folders, and pencils. It also means new clothes.  Old Navy promo code for getting new back to school clothes, on budget, for your kids. Plan a back-to-school shopping outing with your little ones to get them excited about the new school year. Pick out the list of classroom supplies from the list your child’s teacher has provided. And don’t forget to label school supplies, too. 

Discuss Anything That’s Worrying Them Since many kids will be returning to school after a prolonged absence, it is very natural for them to be fearful. After all, they have become used to attending classes online and hearing about Covid day after day. Parents need to talk openly with their kids and acknowledge their concerns and let them know what the family, schools, and teachers are doing to keep them safe. Ask your school for pointers if you’re not sure what to say. 

Make Your Kids are Eating Nutritious, Well-Balanced Meals at HomeKids love junk food. School is often an outlet for kids to eat sugary foods and unhealthy snacks. Whether you pack them or not, they seem to find their way to your kids. Making sure kids get a healthy breakfast and dinner at home can help your child be at their best at school, both physical and mentally. Healthy diets make for healthier kids.

Start Curbing Screen TimeNow that your children are ready to go back to school, it is time to start curbing their screen time. Kids won’t have as much free time to spend on their tablets, phones, and streaming shows. It’s up to parents to set a new routine, with dedicated homework time, bedtime, and dedicated (reduced) screen time. Your kids will be cranky at first, stay consistent. You can also look for fun, educational activities to do as a family that are free of screens. Things like going for walks, playing board games, or reading favorite books together. Set aside time each day for the family to unplug, screen free, together. 

Final WordsBack-to-school time can be an exciting and emotional time for parents and kids. And although school doors are re-opening, the Pandemic is still with us. Children may still be worried. Remember though, kids take their cues from you. Model the behavior you want to see, like good handwashing and proper mask-wearing. Let your kids know that we are “lucky” to be able to do these things to be safe and empower your child to handle themselves safely – in the classroom and beyond.