5 Things Parents Can Practice With Their Kids at Home to Help Teachers This Year
5 things parents can practice with their kids at home this year to help teachers
Parents, students and teachers are facing a very different school year than ever before. Everyone has to recognize one thing: we are all in this together! Teachers do their best to prepare their students for a successful year, but here are five things parents can practice at home to help teachers get back to school.
1. Let your child wear a mask for a long time.
Regardless of your personal feelings about masks, masks will be required in most classrooms. Find one that is comfortable, allows for good breathability, and has good protection factors. (Here are some of our favorite masks for kids.) Your child will most likely need to wear them throughout the day, with small breaks for snacks and lunch. So have her start wearing it for an hour, then two hours, then three hours just to get her used to it. Not only will this help your child, but teachers will always appreciate your efforts.
Psst... if your child is struggling to understand wearing a mask, a video might help! Here are some of our favorite mask-wearing videos to help kids understand the requirement.
2. Teach your child to dress themselves.
Most teachers will be hands-free as much as possible. It will be important for students to be able to put on and take off their jackets and tie their shoes. Teach your child how to zip up or tie the infamous double knot. It will help everyone stay socially distanced and safe in the long run.
3. Practice flexibility and positivity.
This year is new territory for all of us. Please, please, please be flexible with your expectations of what this year "should" be like. Teach your child to do the same. I guarantee it won't be school as usual. Things must change immediately. Despite all the twists and turns of this school year, keep a positive attitude as your child will be aware of your feelings. If you roll the punches with a positive attitude, they will too.
4. Keep an open line of communication with your child.
Ask your child about their day. Talk about the good, the bad, and the ugly. Be vulnerable with them and they will retaliate. By prioritizing relationships, you and your child will be happier. Also, know that you can communicate with your teacher to best support your child.
5. Now develop a routine.
Children have not had lessons in class since March. Develop a routine for your child that includes an appropriate bedtime. Let your child get up in the morning to have breakfast, get ready and brush their teeth. While this may prove to be a struggle, at least now there is room for struggle, in contrast to the start of school in the coming weeks.
*Bonus: Grant extra grace to your child's teacher and your child.
Please know we are for you...not against you. Our desire is for your child to learn, whether in person or online. We work hard - harder than ever - to ensure justice among our students. Be extra friendly and understanding. Be quick and offer an encouraging message or email. you go far!
Remember, we're in this together! If you take some time now to prepare for this school year, this year will be a successful one for everyone.
How else can parents help teachers this school year? Share in the comments below.
Also, 12 questions parents should ask their kids about technology.
