Back to School, Fall 2020
Read Time: 1 min 35 sec
The global pandemic is presenting challenges to school systems across the country. In an effort to balance the benefits of on-site learning with public health, many school districts are moving forward with in-person classes or a hybrid of in-person and remote. Other districts favor completely remote learning. Each scenario presents new challenges but working together with your children’s teachers can help keep everyone healthy and engaged.
Tips for the New School Year:
Stay Informed
- Have open communication between school and family
- Attend meetings when they are offered
Educate Children on COVID Guidelines
- How to properly wash their hands and practice safe hygiene
- How to wear a mask and take off a mask properly
- How to wash a mask
- Physical distancing etiquette (e.g., not touching other students, not sharing personal belongings (pencils, erasers, etc.)
Things to Pack for On-site Learning
- Extra mask
- Hand sanitizer (if allowed by school) in backpack and lunch box (FDA hand sanitizer updates)
- Consider packing lunch in a paper bag that students can throw away after use
Tips for Virtual Classrooms
- Children tend to do better with consistency and routine. Maintain a home learning routine as close to their normal school routine as possible. Keep set times for learning, meals & snacks, physical activity, and bedtime.
- Set up a designated area for student(s) to learn – make sure it is quiet and away from distractions.
Preparing your students will likely be a challenge, but one that can be overcome with great results.
Additional Resources for the School Year:
- RECIPES: Tasty kid-friendly recipes
- Physical activity and nutrition ideas
- National Childhood Obesity Month
- Creating a healthy fun lunch
- TIPS: Snack tips for parents
- TIPS: Healthier school day
- TIPS: Kid-friendly veggies and fruits
Next Article: How to Identify Credible Nutrition Information