With Alberta reopening school this September in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic many have questions about the re-opening plans. Whether you believe students should not be going back to school in person this September or not, here are some tips to survive and thrive this school year.

1. Communicate – Communication will be critical during this school year. In the middle of this rapidly evolving situation, it’s important that you keep all lines of communication open with the school, your child and your family. You need to be aware of the health and wellness of your family as well as the school guidelines to be able to pivot if needed and adapt to the ever-changing conditions. It’s a big transition for children who were use to staying home and have you around. Young children will require some adaptation.
2. Play – Set some time away to play and relax with your child. With all the rules they have to follow daily in school it’s important to help them unwind at least once a week to help them be productive and manage the stress. You may have developed a play routine by now, make sure you continue with their favourite activities to help them manage.
3. Have a system – This year more than ever, having a system will be critical for your own well-being and that of your family. Here are a few helpful things you can do to help with your system:
   • Set up a station for bag drop-off and cleaning. This can be set at the entrance of your house right before they go wash their hands. An alcohol spray bottle will help make daily disinfecting easy and kids can help too.
   • Have some pre-made kits of commonly used of lost items. This will help reduce the stress if you are not able to clean everything and/or they lose some items.
   • Keep a family calendar and plan meals in advance. This will help you stay on top of all you have to do.
   • Label school items so you do not mix them with household items. You do not want your child to mix school and home utensils before you are able to clean and disinfect.
   • Keep records of all paper communication with the school in a box or filling system. This will be easier to find things in case you need it later.
4. Reminders. Sticky notes and cards will be your best friends this year. Slip some reminders for handwashing for your child, particularly in their lunch box. If they do not know how to read, use colour coded cards. Rehearse at home to ensure they can recall the action you want them to remember.
5. Motivational quotes. Put some fun cards in their bag to encourage them throughout the week or day. You can even spend the weekend doing them together with some to be used later. This can be an easy way to show care to your child and other family members.

Do you have any other tips you think may be helpful? Please share them with us in the comments below.