Send HELP… It seems like the kids go back to school earlier & earlier every year. This year is a whole lot different because of the climate we’re in. A global health pandemic, a social justice movement, & the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. That doesn’t stop these kids from needing an education! They truly are the future!
Throughout this post, I’d like to highlight a couple of tips & resources I’ve found that will help you navigate education either from home or in a socially distanced environment. These tips will be geared toward kids still in the public/private school system structure.
Some things may be challenging but we are in this together! Be patient with yourselves, be kind, give yourself grace, take that moment & reflect. In the words of Kathryn (Do it on a dime) “You are enough!” This will be an ongoing series of posts. I’ll link resources and videos throughout and below. Let’s get into it!
Back to school shopping:
- Outofmilk.com has some adorable shopping checklist templates and ideas for shopping for just about anything. This list is specific for Back to School. Definitely modify as needed.
- Amazon! Use this link to explore some back to school supply options from Amazon. Use Prime to get shipping sometimes the same day!
- Dollar Tree is your friend. Especially for incentive items for smaller children, and quick grabs. Set yourself a small budget and have fun. Note* If shopping online be mindful of the minimum purchase quantity. I linked the section with smaller quantities, if all else fails head to the store, use the website as a guide for goodies to find.
- Target Dollar spot. I love to shop in this section at Target to find items to add to the Busy Box.
- Instacart. The day has come, Instacart has finally teamed up with Walmart. Shop from the comfort of your home & check off the items on that list! Use my referral code: BBROWNBATCHAN12C
- Ibotta. Use Ibotta to save money on everything else; a cashback rewards app that I use to make real money every time I shop for groceries, online purchases, and more! Just use my referral code “uwsxdep” at registration.
Remote Learning in General:
- Set up a learning space, cubby system, or cart system to keep school work organized.
- Structure for your day. Set a and use a block schedule for little ones.
- Set expectations for behaviors.
- Assign daily tasks.
- Find your groove, don’t compare yourself, do what works for your family.
- Busy Box for downtime. Fill this fun box with games, books, coloring items, activities to reduce screen time.
Middle/High school-aged kids & student-athletes
- Communicate flexible schedules, rest schedule, etc. But actually set a schedule, it helps with learning structure.
- Independent learning- Practice college prep and skills to learn on their own. Practice self-discipline.
- Encourage them to set goals and deadlines for themselves.
- Flexible learning environments. What environment do they study and learn better in? Allow them to study in multiple areas of the home to see what works best.
- Encourage finding online study groups, or tutoring for extra assistance.
- Let the teacher be in charge of accountability. Monitor your teen to be successful but try not to control more than is necessary.
- Spare time: Explore interests outside of school work. Extracurricular activities or programs to attend.
- Keep them engaged in the sport they’re active in, get them active in a safe way. Examples include; reports on players, current events in the sport, new workout routines/techniques.
- Plan for the future. Make it fun; research colleges, check out scholarships, plan for a Major, explore future careers.
Mix and match whatever works for you and your kids, and use your resources. Don’t ever feel alone because we’re all in this together in some way, shape or form!
Stay grateful, stay healthy & be blessed Family!
Let’s continue the conversation in the comments or Contact Me!
Resources:
online school tips: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-N5z6YB1iro
Suddenly Homeschooling HS: https://www.annieandeverything.com/episode-36-suddenly-homeschooling-high-school/
More from Do it on a Dime: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHAJX2tb5XM