As the summer is winding down, students are gearing up for another school year. But this year it’s looking a little different. While students are still expected to show up ready with their pencils, backpacks, and notebooks, they need to keep a bit more in mind as they embark on this COVID school year. This new and daunting chapter for all students across Ontario is sure to teach them some new lessons in many shapes and forms.
This is not an easy time to prepare for. If you’re feeling underprepared, don’t panic, here are a few helpful tips to feel a bit more at ease while getting your child ready for school: COVID edition.
Tip #1: Feeling under the weather? It’s okay to call in sick.
Symptoms of any illness should be taken seriously, especially if they relate to the many symptoms of COVID-19. If you or your child is feeling sick, its best to call in for the day to keep yourself and others safe. A helpful tip is to check your child’s temperature every morning before leaving for school. This routine reduces any risk of the spread of any illness and will increase awareness in your child’s well-being.
Tip #2: Pack a mask and hand sanitizer.
While the ultimate goal is to have established a consistent hand hygiene routine, it’s understandable that this is not the first thing on any child’s mind. This is why it’s important to pack reinforcements. Hand sanitizer is a great tool to send with your child to school. Consider purchasing one with a case or clip, so they can attach it to their backpacks, pencil cases, or coats. This way, hand hygiene is always on their mind.
Students in grades 4-12 are required to wear a non-medical or cloth mask while indoors, so don’t forget to pack extra! Packing one or two spares in your child’s backpack is important in case their masks break or get dirty.
Tip #3: Establish an afterschool routine!
Keep your home safe by establishing an afterschool routine with your child. Get your child into the habit of washing their hands thoroughly before continuing with their afterschool activities. Experts also recommend establishing a system to have your child remove their shoes and clothes and to place them in a laundry basket or a safe place to disinfect. While a shower isn’t necessary, ask your child if they would feel more comfortable taking a shower after school.
Tip #4: Stay Positive!
It’s easy to get caught up with the many variables that might make this new chapter overwhelming and negative. However, the important thing to do is to stay positive, have patience and optimism. While this transition is not easy, it’s important to set an example for your children to take in the new experience with a sense of hope and preparedness.
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