#30Seconds In-Depth: Navigating Back to School During the Coronavirus Pandemic With Savvy Schooling Mom Holly Budde by Donna John
Back-to-school time is always hectic for parents, but never more so than in 2020. The coronavirus pandemic has produced more questions than answers when it comes to kids returning to school, and parents need to stick together and support each other now more than ever. That’s why we were so excited to welcome Holly Budde, a Texas-based mom of two teenage daughters, to share advice and answer questions about going back to school during the pandemic.
Holly, whose daughters went back to school in person recently, discussed how parents can help prepare their kids to return to school, homeschooling when returning is not an option, reducing screen time and her experiences so far with her two teens. But no topic was off the table. Read on for advice, tips and inspiration for this unprecedented school year.
Q: How can parents prepare kids to return to school?
Parents play an important role in their kid's education. A positive "can do it" attitude sets the foundation for the child/school relationship. Allow your kids to freely speak to you about their anxieties and fears. Be their leader in an age appropriate manner, talk honestly with them without scaring them.
i think you just be authentic and ask them what they think about having a play date. Come to an agreement for everyone and go have some fun #30seconds
— Holly @Tweenspot (@tweenspot) October 1, 2020
A1 Go over safety guidelines. ie handwashing, face masks, etc. #30Seconds
— Toni B (@rychepet) October 1, 2020
A1 prayer !! #30seconds
— melinda (@justbeachy74) October 1, 2020
#30seconds A1 by practicing mask wearing, routines, getting on zoom,
— countrygirl (@sonlight00) October 1, 2020
Always! You have to be their "rock". They need to feel secure & safe. If you don't have the answers, find out together. #30Seconds
— Toni B (@rychepet) October 1, 2020
was waiting on one of my mine to come home w a traded mask...so far no. They are paying attention to the rules. don't want another 7 months at home #30seconds
— Holly @Tweenspot (@tweenspot) October 1, 2020
Q: Many schools are still closed. What advice can you give homeschooling parents?
- Do the best you can. If it looks and feels like total chaos, it's because it is! Don't be so hard on yourself!
- Set up workplaces just for school. Allow flexible spaces and seating. Outside spaces can be ideal for kids!
- For older children, like mine, self-study is easier but they need specific rules about assignments due and time for school only.
Patience and a Sense of Humor! 😂 #30Seconds https://t.co/nn4sck6W1q
— Pam McCormick (@dancinmoma) October 1, 2020
A2 BREATHE! don't panic, and do the best you can #30Seconds
— Toni B (@rychepet) October 1, 2020
A2. Hang in there everything will be ok and get better. Ours is homeschooled this year so far #30seconds
— Minionmommy2be (@MinionMommy2Be) October 1, 2020
#30seconds A2 wine, lots of wine, and give yourself all the time you need
— countrygirl (@sonlight00) October 1, 2020
Q: How can we reduce the amount screen time our kids are using?
Every insist on some down time to get your kid off the computer screens and spend their energy with free/unscheduled time. Set a specific time each evening that all devices are off – including yours! The most positive thing I've seen about homeschool is the time I had with my kids. Use it wisely for the whole family's benefit. If the weekends are the only time you have, then create a fun day. Park, nature walks, cookouts, something simple and fun.
A3 Schedule it. Try to rotate activities if possible. #30Seconds
— Toni B (@rychepet) October 1, 2020
A3 And, I've never tried them, but you can get blue light glasses to help save their eyes. #30Seconds
— Toni B (@rychepet) October 1, 2020
I know. It sucks. I have to find ways to motivate our 12 yr old / 7th grader to do her homework. She says, “Mommy I’m online all day we shouldn’t have homework!” #30Seconds https://t.co/yJu458AHoJ
— Meredith Schneider (@Merber38) October 1, 2020
Q: Some districts are returning to in person school or hybrid study. Any experience with this?
Yes. I have two in junior high who returned. They love it. All day masks do not bother them at all. Our district has social distancing rules and if kids don't follow them, they will be sent back home. In the hybrid model for college, my daughter actually has more time to study, and still goes to campus biweekly. Returning has mostly been a positive experience for my kids.&
#30seconds A4 yes my youngest is all day in person, her older sisters are 2 days a week. It hasn't been too bad, but we are a tiny rural district.
— countrygirl (@sonlight00) October 1, 2020
I know, and it's such an unusual experience for their first year in college. #30seconds
— Holly @Tweenspot (@tweenspot) October 1, 2020
Q: Any final thoughts for parents tonight?
- Parents struggle with the "right choice." Whatever is best for your family is the right choice.
- Every kid is different. No one knows your kids more than you.
- Interact accordingly with them and their teachers.
- Don't expect perfection from the kids or yourself.
- Try not to compare your house with others.
- Practice self-love, parents! You can't do it all, especially if you're worn out. Take time out for YOU!
A5. You’re doing the best you can do keep up the good work and remember that is enough you are enough #30seconds
— Minionmommy2be (@MinionMommy2Be) October 1, 2020
A5 If you can, find another parent and have days that you keep and trade kids to give each other a break. #30Seconds
— Toni B (@rychepet) October 1, 2020
A5 Try to stay calm, have a little faith, and think positive. #30Seconds
— Toni B (@rychepet) October 1, 2020
@30seconds A5 Know that you're not alone. Reach out for help if you need it. #30Seconds
— Toni B (@rychepet) October 1, 2020
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