Ready or Not?
Setting good habits for when we’re back
By Mimi Greenwood Knight
We’re living in a time of uncertainty. Without a crystal ball, none of us knows when life will return to normal or what that “normal” might look like. But at some point, our kids will likely return to traditional classroom learning and there are things we can be doing now to prepare them for that day.
#ONE
Maintain a routine
Returning to a full-day schedule will be challenging for kids. Set regular bedtimes now. Wake at a consistent(ish) time. Get dressed each day. Structure and predictability now will help them transition more easily to the routine of school.
#TWO
Teach good hygiene habits
Train kids now to wash their hands multiple times a day for 20 seconds each time so when school resumes it will be routine for them. Talk to them about the importance of not touching their nose, mouth, and eyes.
#THREE
Practice active listening skills
Listening in a classroom with its distractions is harder than one-on-one with you at home. Play games like Simon Says, Telephone, or 20 Questions to help kids maintain the active listening skills they’ll need when they return to school.
#FOUR
Start backing off devices
Many homes have increased television and digital media time over the past few months. Start limiting screen time more as school gets closer.
The non-profit CommonSenseMedia.org is a good source for family-friendly entertainment and technology recommendations.
#FIVE
READ, READ, READ!
Read to your child and encourage them to read alone. Reading is an accrued skill. The more you read, the better you get. The better you get, the more you want to read.
And if you’ve been home for months with your child, I don’t have to tell you to let your kids’ teachers know they’re rock stars and you appreciate everything they do for your child and your family.
