Get Ready. Your COVID Back To School List

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Getting ready for school this year is different than any other time we’ve experienced. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to consider, whether your kids are going to school, distance learning, or both.

By Wendi Rank

Our back to school anxiety is exponential this summer. My kids want to know what to expect for the year. I miss using school supplies as a reason to visit Target.

Most of us are unsure how to prepare for school as the first day edges closer. Here are some tips for school – at home, in person, or both – I’ve curated from different lists. Those lists are linked if you’d like to know more.

Tip #1 Supply & Expand

Check your school’s website for a list of school supplies. Don’t forget you’ll also need materials for home if you’re distance learning.

And that’s my excuse to hit Target.

Tip #2 Keep It Clean

Send the kids to school with hand sanitizer and a mask. Kid-sized face masks can be found here. Proper use of masks and caring for them can be found here.

Tip #3 Lunch Break

Real Simple suggests using hard lunch boxes – they’re easy to clean at the end of the day. Pick up a few water bottles, too. Target and L.L. Bean have reasonably priced options.

Some schools aren’t using lockers, so you might want to invest in a backpack. Clear backpacks can be found at Old Navy.

Tip #4 Rainy Days As Fun Days

Indoor recess might be challenging without shared projects or games. Stock up on books or other activities the kids can bring to school on rainy days.

Tip #5 An Apple A Day…

Have a thermometer for screening at home. Make sure vaccines are current, says the American Academy of Pediatrics. The CDC reminds us to keep kids home when they’re sick.

Tip #6 Space Odyssey

Reconsider your space if you’re distance learning. Forbes suggests using the kitchen table or even a new desk for schoolwork. Target and Ikea have low-priced options.

Design a reading nook. Be creative with outdoor space or materials you already have. The CDC says having a schedule can support your school-time atmosphere.

Tip #7 Office Space

The University of Texas at El Paso suggests maximizing your home internet for distance learning. Xfinity and Verizon each have internet options when multiple devices will be online at the same time. Have a good, well-stocked printer too.

Tip #8 Practice Makes Perfect

Start preparing everyone now, says TulsaKids. Practice wearing masks and proper hygiene for coughs and sneezes. Parents should know how to use the school’s distance learning software. Virtual study groups provide socialization and can aid learning, says Parents magazine.

If You’re Still Panicking

Take a look at the CDC’s guide for in-school, hybrid, and distance learning. Cradles To Crayons provides school supplies, clothing, and more if finances are limited.

If you’re shopping for your supplies, you can do it in one stop at King of Prussia’s shopping district. The area’s website lists stores. You can also see who offers curbside pickup.

And yes. There is a Target.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Wendi Rank is a Montgomery County native with a graduate degree from LaSalle University. She has worked as a registered nurse and nurse practitioner in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. She has previously written for the journal Nursing.

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