The Fall 2020 School Classroom: How Will School During the COVID-19 Pandemic Look & What Should Kids & Parents Expect? by Kristen DiGiovanni

What will most classrooms/schools look like this fall? Teachers and administrators throughout the U.S. are working nonstop to prepare for school to be resume in late August/September. Most public schools are leaning toward a hybrid approach to teaching, but approaches will vary from district to district, dependent on the prevalence of COVID-19 in each region, the size of schools and the ages of students.

You will likely see a mix of in-school and remote learning at most public schools. At private schools, there will generally be smaller class sizes and more in-school options. I have also heard that some parents are pursuing alternatives, such as small cohorts of students being homeschooled by a student teacher or a furloughed teacher. It is still early to say, but one thing for sure is that public schools will be different than any other year in the past.

As a parent, I have proactively stocked up on masks, hand sanitizer and even plastic PPE face shields for my children. In terms of supplies, children will personal everything, including Chromebooks, iPads, pencils, pens, crayons, etc. One thing you won't see this year is sharing.

To prepare children, parents should reassure kids that they will remain safe. My oldest is entering fourth grade and has diagnosed anxiety. She is afraid, but at the same time sad to not be with friends and in a routine. I have already started telling her it will be OK and reassuring her that she knows how to keep herself safe.

My advice is to remind and reassure. Rely on what children already know. Even my rising first grader knows how to wear a mask, use hand sanitizer, keep a safe distance and wash her hands frequently.

A study routine and a positive mindset will go a long way, even if you as a parent or teacher are freaking out on the inside! It is absolutely possible to successfully blend in-school learning with remote classes. School has always been in person from morning until 3 p.m., because that is the norm, but there has always been homework and help from parents.

There's is no rulebook that says that is the only way to teach. Students respond to various methods and philosophies. If schools and families partner up and organize, students will adjust.

The key is clear expectations and strong home-school partnerships. As a full-time working mom, I certainly understand the strain this puts on parents who must work to support their families. It will be a challenging year for sure, but the children will be fine in the end, and they will have an experience in coping and adapting that will last them the rest of their lives.

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