In the wake of COVID-19, the back-to-school season looks a lot different this year. As experts continue to weigh the pros and cons of children returning to school, some parents must plan and prepare for virtual learning.
Confused on what back-to-school supplies your child will need this year? You are not alone. Below are some classroom and homeschool supply essentials that might help your child get excited and prepared to go back to school, even if they are not physically heading back to campus.
1. Face Masks
The most essential supply of the 2020 school year will be face masks. Whether your child is going back to school or learning virtually, buying different styles of kid-friendly face masks will allow them to be in charge of which mask they choose to wear each day. Boomer Naturals’ face masks come in two child-friendly sizes and some also have adjustable nose pieces and ear loops to maximize comfort. To ensure your child will wear the mask, it should fit correctly and comfortably to prevent fidgeting.
Have a middle school or high school student? Boomer Naturals also offers the Nano-Silver Reusable Protective masks for adults.
If you’re having trouble convincing your child to wear a mask (or keep one on!) check out our guide.
2. Hand Sanitizer
According to the CDC, you should stock up on hand sanitizer that is 60–95% alcohol to help stop the spread of infection. This will be useful in the classroom or on the go when soap and water is not available. Keeping gel hand sanitizer on your child’s desk or in their workspace will remind them to use it when washing their hands is not an option. Boomer Naturals’ Gel Hand Sanitizer is a doctor-formulated, antimicrobial gel sanitizer that can help reduce the risk of illness and help keep your child healthy.
3. Computer/Learning Device
You likely made do with what you had when schools went virtual during the spring. But now is the time to ensure your child is set up for virtual learning, as having the right tools will be imperative to their homeschool experience. Proper connectivity and Wi-Fi connection, along with a tablet or computer, will help your child stay up-to-date with assignments in this virtual world. As experts weigh in, we may very well see a balance of in-home and in-classroom teaching, so equipping your child with the right tools will help them succeed in this nuanced environment.
4. The Basics
While this year’s supplies may look a bit different than usual, some remain the same. Parents should still go back to the basics and buy pens, pencils, markers, erasers and notebooks for both in-home and in-classroom learning. Placing school supplies in a washable pouch could help prevent the spread of germs and keep children healthy if returning to the classroom. These staples will be important as student’s transition into virtual learning or homeschooling.
5. Dry-Erase Sticky Notes & Boards
Creating a fun environment in your home will make children more eager to learn and perform school work. Try to establish an agenda with reminders by using dry-erase boards or sticky notes. These materials can help inspire children to be creative, learn new skills and minimize paper-use. Creating activities or agendas using these supplies can help keep the homeschool learning environment interactive and enjoyable.
6. Creativity Station
Keeping children engaged is often difficult with the distractions of TV or other activities nearby. Consider preparing a creativity station equipped with markers, craft materials, stickers and glue to help keep your child focused. Young children may need brain breaks in between learning the newest math problem, and setting up a creative space for them can be a great outlet to pause, create art and refresh the mind during distance learning.
References
https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/12/health/gallery/school-supplies-list-coronavirus/index.html
https://sunshinewhispers.com/13-must-have-school-supplies-for-distance-learning/
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/reopening-schools.html
https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-supplies-for-remote-learning.html