Set the mood for back to school at home.
Wait, there is a back to school? I have no idea what this coming year is going to look like and I know many of us are in the same boat. I do know we need to set the mood and start off right. You have this! We can do this. Really we can. How do I know? Listen very carefully to this incredible insight-
It is always 5’o clock somewhere. You can do this.
By the way, I was an elementary school teacher. I have an idea of how amazing your child is and how capable your child is. So let’s provide the basics and get them, and us, started-to overcoming “different,” succeeding and growing from it.
Set the mood for success and positive vibes with these five.
Set up a work space and supplies.
Things to keep in mind are-
- Have good lighting. If there is direct sunlight, is there a shade option? If it gets too dark, can they turn on a light?
- Free from noise and visual distractions. I get it. You probably are going to vacuum or run the dishwasher. But maybe try to avoid setting up a student work space right next to the television or where a sibling plays. Ignoring television might be hard for them to do despite how boring you think the program you are watching is.
- Capable of plugging in when they need to. Online learning, distant learning, zoom instruction, the names go on- they will need to be able to plug their device into a power source. Have that ready so it does not become a panic search during an online classroom video.
Set up a routine (schedule).
Create a schedule with time blocks. Of course, do what works for you. However, if there is no time expectations, oftentimes things will not get done.
A schedule of what to expect every day helps say routine.
Routine promotes consistency.
Consistency helps avoid the need to freak out because of the incomplete assignments piling up.
And, you can ask your child for advice to help create the schedule (as they kind of have an insight).
Set up a visible sign of their schedule.
Having a chart displayed somewhere with the schedule defines that this space is a working space. Think of it as the front door to expectations. This daily visual is a cue that will start to engrain on them and hopefully get them to become more self-accountable.
Set up a clock.
Having a clock where they can see it can help with focus and staying on task. Having a timer can also help with stamina. If a child has to read for 20 minutes, having a countdown reassures them there is a finish line (Despite how brilliant or avid of a reader, sometimes encouragement is needed.).
It is nice to look forward to the end of a work day. Knowing there is a wrap up time is encouraging and reassures them the work load is not indefinite- “So get done today what you need to get done!”
Set up something sentimental; something thoughtful.
Not complicated, just thoughtful.
I love this idea so here are some ideas to make this happen-
- a card- bought or homemade
- fun family or favorite memory photo in a frame
- photo of the family pet holding a sign saying “good luck”
- a yummy snack
- cute plant
- cute décor
- positive message
Sidenote. Your back to school shopping this year likely will be different, if any is done. Instead of skipping it all together, how about…get that new backpack anyway or that set of pink pens or those shoes that finally went on sale. Some normalcy may seem small but greatly appreciated and hugely comforting.
To you, the adult.
Exhale.
If you need help- reach out! From the teacher, from the school, or from other parents.
Provide your best and what works for your family is of value and is good enough. Remember, you were once their very first teacher.
Supplies.
You probably will be told what you will need from their teachers. You probably will have almost everything at home already.
Just some thoughts…
- Have a smooth surface for writing (kitchen tables can sometimes be frustrating).
- Know where the computer/laptop power cord is.
- I am a big fan of desk accessories- on top of the desk or in the drawer (if in the drawer, use a sorter or organizer).
I will have a link of ideas for accessories.
Also keep in mind you can use things from around the house like- a clean spice jar for paper clips, dad’s favorite coffee cup for pens and pencils (I said dad’s), fun objects to act as book holders, a cereal box with a cut out side to make a magazine holder to be used to hold notebooks and so on.
Visible or easy to grab supplies keeps momentum going. And yes to that-
keep the momentum going.
Last minute thoughts before the bell.
- A physical reminder
If your child has vaccinations, don’t forget to stay up on your immunizations.
- A mental reminder
Encourage “phones away.” They need social interaction not more social media.
“I need my phone for school.” Uh, no you don’t.
Use the laptop as much as possible. I find them to use a lot less social media (my theory is because the laptop screen is so much bigger than the phone it may horrify them how large and visible their snapchats are on the screen and we may possibly see them).
- A heart reminder
I have been hearing about “passion project” where the student may get to spend more time doing something they are passionate about; or doing something as a family you have always wanted to do with your kids but did not have the time for.
Which in itself seems revealing that we had to come to a global stand still for us to follow our hearts and be passion reactive.
I do not know about you, but I think we got this. Now let’s just support them all the way to the finish line. And never, never, forget…
It. will. always… be 5’o clock somewhere.
